According to Sergeant Eric White, Public Information Officer for KCSO, the fire “was determined to be an accidental fire caused by an electrical failure on the exterior of ***** SE 174th St.”
Original Story
Late last night, the King County Sheriff’s Office (KCSO) responded to two simultaneous house fires on the 43200 Block of SE 174th Street in the North Bend area of King County.
The incidents began around 11:51 PM and required immediate attention from multiple fire departments. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
Eastside Fire & Rescue (EF&R) crews and the Snoqualmie Fire Department responded to the fires. By 1:16 AM, both fires were under control, and crews began the process of overhaul to ensure no lingering hot spots remained.
“The exact value and extent of the damage caused by the fires are yet to be determined,” stated KCSO Public Information Officer Sergeant Eric White.
The King County Sheriff’s Office Fire Investigation Unit has been called in to determine the cause of the fires. However, due to safety concerns, the investigation team will need at least 24 hours to enter the zone after the fire was extinguished. This precaution ensures the fires are completely out and prevents potential flare-ups, safeguarding the investigators. Rainy conditions may change this time frame.
The fires have reportedly displaced seven residents – two from one home and five from another.
The King County Sheriff’s Office recommends the following safety precautions to help homeowners avoid similar incidents:
- Prevent fires by being cautious with cooking, smoking, heaters, candles, and electrical equipment, and ensuring children do not play with matches.
- Install and maintain smoke detectors on every level of your home, particularly near bedrooms.
- Keep a fire extinguisher accessible and know how to use it.
- Familiarize yourself with exit routes and evacuation procedures for your home, office, and school, and practice them regularly.
- Provide escape ladders for floors above ground level and practice using them.
- Designate a meeting place outside your home for family and co-workers.
- Ensure fire vehicles can access your home by marking driveway entrances and displaying your address.
- Plan for alternative housing with friends or family in case of emergency.
As the community awaits further details, the King County Sheriff’s Office and local fire departments continue to ensure safety and prevent future incidents. Updates on the investigation and damage assessments will be provided as more information becomes available.
