Residential Structure Fire - 477 NE Winchester Street - 8-4-19

Roseburg Fire Dept.

At 4:18 p.m. on August 4, 2019, Roseburg Fire Department personnel responded to a reported structure fire at 477 NE Winchester Street.  Upon arrival at the two-story duplex, firefighters found heavy smoke and fire from the backside of the structure.  All residents had existed the structure prior to firefighters arriving.

When firefighters arrived, they made entry through the front door and additional lines were deployed to the back of the home.  The fire was quickly extinguished and overhaul was completed.  Firefighters were able to protect the surrounding homes from damage.  One family of seven was displaced and being assisted by the American Red Cross.

Nine firefighters assisted with firefighting operations.  Other agencies assisting with the fire included Avista, Roseburg Police Department, and Pacific Power.  The cause of the fire was determined to be discarded smoking material outside of the structure.  Damage to the structure was estimated to be approximately $30,000.

The Roseburg Fire Department would like to remind everyone of the following safety tips:
  • Always discard smoldering and spent cigarettes properly. Select ashtrays that reduce the chances of a burning cigarette falling onto carpeting and upholstery.
  • Check waste baskets and cushions in rooms where people have been smoking. Look for cigarette embers that are still burning.
  • Smoking and drinking can be as deadly as drinking and driving. If you host a party and allow smoking, check under chair and sofa cushions before going to bed. Get in the habit of watching out for unattended, but smoldering cigarettes.
  • Never smoke in bed or anywhere when drowsy. Cigarettes can smolder longer than most bedding materials and upholstery can resist igniting.
  • Keep matches and lighters, especially novelty lighters, out of the reach of children. Even a toddler can operate a lighter. Child resistant lighters are not childproof.
Safety tips are courtesy of the Oregon Life Safety Team.  Photos courtesy of Ryan Finlay, Kristy Proctor, and Roseburg Fire Department.

For the latest information regarding the City of Roseburg Fire Department, please visit our website at www.cityofroseburg.org or like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/roseburgfire.









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