INDEPENDENT ACTIONS PREVENT CATASTROPHIC LOSSES

Arcata, CA – At the end of last week, Arcata Fire District responded to two separate reports of fires. One was in an occupied commercial business and other in an apartment complex, near an exit.

Quick action from employees and bystanders extinguished the fires prior to arrival of fire personnel. Both locations had on site fire extinguishers, which were used to put out the fires with minimal damage. The individuals used their fire extinguisher training to prevent the fires from growing large enough to cause extensive damage.

Chief McDonald reports “both of these fire could have been extremely damaging if it were not for the quick action of the bystanders. Early notification and fire extinguisher training were key to the successful outcome.”

Arcata Fire District would like to remind the community members to always have a fire extinguisher close at hand, whether at home or at work, know how to use it safely and routinely check that it is charged for use if needed.

If you are interested in learning more about fire extinguishers or training, please contact Fire Marshal Ed Laidlaw at 707-825-2000 or visit the Fire Prevention page on our website at https://www.arcatafire.org/fire-prevention.