Aurora Fire Rescue responded to a structure fire at a four-plex residential building at approximately 11 am. Before the first unit arrived, an off-duty AFR Captain entered the structure and rescued a dog. Once AFR units arrived, fire crews found a detached covered carport and two large trash cans on fire. Fire crews quickly went to work by deploying hose lines to extinguish the fire, connecting to fire hydrants, and searching the building for possible victims. Their quick actions saved the four homes and prevented any injuries. The fire is out, no one was displaced, and the homes are still tenable. The cause and origin of the fire are still under investigation.
As May is National Building Safety Month, functioning sprinkler systems, fire alarms, and other critical building safety protections are essential to keeping structures safe for those who occupy and use them. Residents can also do their part by testing every smoke alarm in their homes monthly. Batteries should be replaced at least once a year, and smoke alarms should be replaced every 8-10 years. As we move into the warmer summer months, it is also important to ensure all ashes and coals from BBQs are cold and completely extinguished before they are disposed of.