Residential Fire in the 1900 Block of California Street

On Saturday, April 11, at 3:56 p.m., a 9-1-1 call was received reporting fire under a sink in a multi-family apartment complex in the 1900 block of California Street. The building's occupants self-evacuated before firefighters arrived.

Fire units were dispatched at 3:56 p.m. and arrived on the scene at 3:57 p.m. Upon arrival, units found an active fire coming from two units on the second floor of a two-story, multi-family residential apartment complex. Firefighters used thermal imaging cameras to measure heat behind the drywall and found the fire had spread into the attic. Firefighters extinguished the flames with a fire-attack hose line, preventing the fire from spreading further into the building.

A second alarm was called to bring additional resources to the scene of the incident. Firefighters performed an extensive overhaul of two adjoining kitchens, cutting open walls and the ceiling to ensure the flames were completely extinguished.

The fire was extinguished with no injuries. The Mountain View Police Department provided traffic control for two and a half hours while fire units and equipment were on the scene.

The residents of the affected unit received a $250 gift card from the California Professional Firefighters Union Supplying Aid to Victims of Emergency Program. Due to fire, smoke, and water damage, the American Red Cross was contacted to coordinate temporary housing for the occupants of two units. Temporary arrangements were made for 11 residents, including 6 adults and 5 children, for the affected unit and the unit directly below due to water damage.

The kitchen of the adjoining vacant apartment was determined to be the fire's area of origin. The cause of the fire was determined to be accidental, due to a renovation mishap. The estimated damage to the contents and structure is $200,000. The building was turned over to the property manager before fire crews left the scene.

By following a few safety tips, you can protect your family from fire while performing residential renovations.
• Install alarms in every sleeping room, outside each sleeping area, and on every level.
• Use qualified electricians, avoid extension cords as permanent wiring, and ensure proper installation of appliances.
• Surround foam insulation with a 4-inch fireproof barrier.

Photographs

Individual images can be found at Flickr.com/photos/MVpublicsafety.

Media Contact
Robert Maitland, Fire Department PIO
650-903-6825 or [email protected]