Columbia, S.C. – Quick Action by Firefighters Saves Homes from Fire
On a warm Tuesday afternoon, the peaceful neighborhood on Hunting Avenue was suddenly rocked by a fire that sent smoke billowing into the sky. Thankfully, the dedicated team from the Columbia-Richland Fire Department was quick to respond, managing to control a potentially disastrous situation.
Firefighters Arrive Just in Time
It was shortly after 5 p.m. on October 22 when firefighters received the call about two sheds that were fully engulfed in flames. As they rushed to the scene, the situation looked grim, with the fire threatening nearby homes. Upon arrival, firefighters found that the blaze was not only fierce but also posed a threat to two houses located dangerously close to the sheds.
In a fabulous display of teamwork and expertise, the firefighters quickly assessed the situation. They went right to work, using their skills and equipment to get the fire under control before it could spread. The occupants of both homes were efficiently evacuated, and their prompt action made a significant difference in preventing any further damage.
External Damages but No Major Injuries
While the fire left the two sheds completely destroyed, it turned out that the homes were relatively unharmed. The fire only caused exterior damages due to the extreme heat, and there was no fire that penetrated the interiors of the residences. This was a big relief to the owners, who must have breathed a sigh of relief knowing their homes were safe.
However, it wasn’t completely without incident. One person at the scene was treated for minor injuries by the local Richland County EMS but was released shortly after. It’s always scary to think about fire, and any injury, no matter how minor, can shake a person up.
How It All Started
Following the fire, an investigation by the fire department determined that the cause was accidental. The flames erupted due to hot coals that had been discarded carelessly near one of the sheds. This unfortunate mistake serves as a cautionary tale for BBQ enthusiasts everywhere. If you plan to fire up the grill for a backyard cookout, remember to let those coals cool down completely before tossing them out.
A Friendly Reminder
As we enjoy the beautiful fall weather, it’s critical to keep safety in mind. The Columbia-Richland Fire Department has shared this important reminder for everyone who loves a good grill-out: always handle discarded coals with care! Ensuring that they are fully cooled can help prevent accidents like the one on Hunting Avenue.
In the end, the community can breathe a little easier knowing that their local firefighters are ready and willing to jump into action when the unexpected happens. Their quick response and dedication to keeping the neighborhood safe is truly commendable.
Let’s all take a moment to thank our firefighters for their tireless efforts. Here’s hoping for more peaceful, fire-free days ahead for everyone in Columbia!
