Just after 6:30 this morning firefighters responded to a house fire at 1762 17 Avenue South. When firefighters arrived at the scene they saw heavy smoke and flames pouring from the front window and back side of the house. Flames shot ten feet in the air and lapped out the window up to the roof, threatening the home next door.

A family of six evacuated the house before firefighters arrived. They were alerted to the fire by smoke alarms and a neighbor who knocked on the door. Firefighters immediately attacked the fire and protected the structure next door.

Fire Investigators determined that this was an accidental electrical fire that started on the back deck. Damage was estimated at $175,000. Red Cross assistance was requested for the family, including two adults and four children. One firefighter suffered minor injuries and was transported to Harborview and one family member was evaluated for possible smoke inhalation.

It’s important for families, and everyone to have a fire safety plan and exit the building as soon as there is indication of a fire. The Seattle Fire Department has developed a collection of activities and family worksheets for parents and caregivers.  These materials provide tools to help teach children what to do if a fire should happen in their home. http://www.seattle.gov/fire/pubEd/familysafety/familySafety.htm.