occupants forced to use a ladder to exit from the second story

At 0430 AM on 7-13-15, Humboldt Bay Fire Engines 8113, 8112, 8115, Truck 8181, Battalion 8104 and Chief 8101 responded to a structure fire at 3539 J Street. The occupants of the residence had been awoken by the fire and were forced to use a ladder to exit from the second story. All occupants were safely outside when fire units arrived. The first unit to arrive stated light smoke was coming from the second story windows.

The crew made access, found and extinguished a fire on the first floor. Additional units provided assistance with ventilation, salvage and removal of damaged wall and ceiling covering. Fire damage was confined to one room but smoke damage was throughout the entire residence.

No injuries were reported, damage estimate is $40,000. 17 firefighters responded, the fire was extinguished in 20 minutes with crews remaining on scene for 1.5 hours. During this time Arcata Fire Protection District covered and handled an investigation call.

The cause and origin investigation shows the fire was caused by a faulty electrical extension cord.

Humboldt Bay Fire commends the residents for remaining calm, having a fire exit plan and for evacuating the residence using a fire escape ladder.

Humboldt Bay Fire reminds all residents to ensure they have working smoke detectors in the living and sleeping areas of their houses and to have a fire exit plan.