Sedona AZ (February 27, 2018) – Shortly after 5 pm Sunday afternoon, Sedona Fire District responded to the 1400 block of Verde Valley School Rd, for a possible structure fire. The first arriving engine noted a large volume of smoke coming from eaves and attic of a single-family dwelling with flames venting from the roof. Firefighters mounted an offensive fire attack and were able to confine the fire to the attic. “Our firefighters made a great stop on the fire,” said Fire Marshal Jon Davis, “They were able to keep the fire confined to the roof and attic area.” The occupants’ belongings and his pet cat were saved.
One firefighter suffered a minor injury which did not require medical attention when part of the ceiling drywall and insulation weighed down by water, fell on him during the firefight. “Fire crews did return to the scene early Monday morning to extinguish a hot spot that remained from the night before,” said Davis.
Fire Investigators have determined that the cause of the fire was due to improper electrical wiring. “It appeared that an electrical wire had overheated to the point that it ignited some nearby insulation,” said Fire Investigator Rick Evans. Another contributing factor was that the occupant had smelled what he described as a burning electrical smell for more than 12 hours preceding the fire and did not think to call the fire department. “If you think you smell any type of smoke in your home, please call us.” Said Evans, “We would be more than happy to come out and find the source of the smell so that we are not back at a later time fighting a fire.” According to Evans, the value of the structure and contents was estimated at $380,000 and the fire loss was estimated at $100,000. “Our firefighters did a great job stopping the fire in the attic,” said Evans “With some repairs to the roof and drywall, the structure should be habitable soon.”