Mobile Fire-Rescue Extinguishes Height Street House Fire

On Tuesday, October 4, 2023, at approximately 10:30 AM, the Mobile Fire-Rescue Department (MFRD) responded to a call reporting a residential structure fire at 1234 Height Street.

Firefighters' Arrival and Initial Assessment

Upon arrival, firefighters encountered a single-family dwelling with heavy smoke and flames emanating from the rear of the property. The crew quickly initiated firefighting operations, deploying two handlines to attack the blaze.

Fire Containment and Extinguishment

MFRD firefighters aggressively fought the fire, utilizing multiple hose lines and ladder trucks to contain and extinguish the flames. After approximately 45 minutes of intense firefighting, the blaze was successfully brought under control and extinguished.

Damage Assessment and Fire Origin

The fire caused significant damage to the rear portion of the dwelling, including a charred bedroom, melted siding, and shattered windows. The estimated property loss is currently being determined by insurance investigators.

The origin and cause of the fire are currently under investigation by MFRD's Fire Investigation Division. Preliminary findings indicate that the fire may have started in an outdoor storage area near the rear of the house.

No Injuries or Fatalities

Fortunately, no injuries or fatalities were reported as a result of the fire. The occupants of the dwelling had safely evacuated before firefighters arrived.

Fire Prevention Measures

MFRD Battalion Chief John Smith emphasized the importance of fire prevention measures in preventing residential fires like the one on Height Street. He urged residents to:

Regularly inspect and clean chimneys and fireplaces.
Keep space heaters at least three feet away from flammable materials.
Use caution when operating cooking appliances and avoid leaving them unattended.
Install and maintain smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors.
Develop and practice a home escape plan.

Community Support and Response

The American Red Cross, along with neighbors and community members, provided support to the displaced occupants by offering temporary shelter, clothing, and other necessities.

Statement from MFRD

"We are grateful for the swift and effective response of our firefighters, who extinguished this blaze and prevented it from spreading to neighboring properties," said MFRD Fire Chief Paul Mosley. "We encourage all residents to take fire safety precautions seriously to protect themselves, their families, and their homes."

Additional Information

The fire occurred in the Crichton neighborhood of Mobile, Alabama.
The affected dwelling was a two-story, wood-frame structure.
MFRD dispatched four fire engines, two ladder trucks, and a battalion chief to the scene.
The fire was extinguished at approximately 11:15 AM.
The investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing.