Fire prevention and safety
GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KREX) — On Friday, April 5, a fire caused by arson burned down an entire apartment building, claiming a life and leaving many with nothing but the clothes on their back. According to Palisade Fire Chief Charles Balke, the age of the building played a role in the fire spreading so quickly. The chief explained that since the late ’70s when this apartment was built, contractors switched to cheaper synthetic materials and glues that burn hotter and faster, causing the fire to spread rapidly.
Thousands of Grand Valley apartment buildings built from the late ’70s onwards use construction materials similar to those that built 920 Iowa Ave. Balke advises the community to take steps to stay safe, such as refraining from burning candles or overloading electrical circuits and ensuring that their smoke detectors work properly. He also suggests that people prepare and have an action plan in case of a fire, such as having a ladder available to escape through the window.
Balke emphasizes that cooking is the leading cause of fires, so it’s important to pay attention and turn off the stove when finished. If you need help assessing fire danger in your home or creating an action plan, you can call the fire department and they will provide you with advice. If a fire starts, it’s important to close doors to contain the fire, install fire sprinklers and keep a fire extinguisher handy to help escape. While everyone hopes that a fire never happens, the biggest factor in preventing a fire is you.
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