Everett Fire provided the following photo and information on a fatal house fire Monday November 2nd
One person died, and another was injured Monday in a house fire in the 7300 block of McDougall Avenue in central Everett.
Everett firefighters responded to reports of a residential structure fire after multiple 911 callers reported smoke and flames coming from the home, with initial reports indicating someone was still inside.
Two and a half minutes after dispatch, the first engine arrived and found an active fire on the lower level of a split-level home. Firefighters immediately entered the residence to begin fire suppression and search operations, working to locate the reported occupant.
Crews encountered challenging fire conditions inside the home that complicated search and firefighting operations. Despite firefighters’ efforts to reach the occupant, an adult male believed to be in his late 30s was found deceased inside the residence.
An adult female in her early 60s suffered minor burns and smoke inhalation and was transported initially to Providence Regional Medical Center Everett by South County Fire paramedics.
Firefighters brought the fire under control in approximately 20 minutes. Crews remained on scene, extinguishing remaining hot spots and checking for fire extension before transitioning to cleanup and inspection efforts.
Preliminary information indicates that a working smoke alarm alerted the homeowner, who was upstairs at the time of the fire. She attempted to reach the male occupant but was unable to do so due to the intense fire conditions. The fire had already grown significantly, preventing the male occupant from escaping.
Social workers with the City of Everett’s CARE team responded to the scene and met with family members to offer support, assistance, and resources. The team is also in communication with the American Red Cross to help coordinate any additional assistance for the residents.
The Everett Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating the origin and cause of the fire. The Everett Police Department is conducting the death investigation, which is standard procedure following a fatal fire. The Snohomish County Medical Examiner’s Office will determine the official identity of the deceased, as well as the cause and manner of death.
Everett Fire extends its deepest condolences to the family, friends, and all those affected by this tragic incident.
Fire Safety Reminders
Check smoke alarms regularly. Install smoke alarms inside every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of the home. Test them monthly.
Create and practice a home fire escape plan. Identify two ways out of every room when possible, and make sure everyone in the household knows the plan.
Keep exits and pathways clear. Maintain accessible routes to doors and windows so household members can escape quickly during an emergency.
Get out and stay out. If a smoke alarm sounds or a fire is discovered, leave immediately, close doors behind you if possible, and call 911 from outside. Never reenter a burning building.
A home fire can spread rapidly, leaving residents with very little time to escape. Taking a few minutes to prepare today can make a critical difference in an emergency.