Bend Fire and Rescue responded Saturday night to a reported fire on a first-floor patio at the Stillwater Crossing apartment complex. 2 Engines, a medic unit, a ladder truck and 1 command vehicle responded. According to a news release, the first arriving engine found a smoldering fire that had been extinguished by a single activated fire sprinkler.
The crews assured the fire was completely out and shut down the system. All residents were able to return to their apartments. An investigation determined the cause was likely improper disposal of cigarette smoking material. Damage was limited to $2,000 of contents and minor damage to the structure. The sprinkler system prevented significant loss to the structure and displacement of multiple occupants.
National data show that the presence of fire sprinklers in residences drastically reduce the fire damage and potential for loss of life.
