Early this afternoon, a resident heard crackling and exited his front door to find flames and heavy smoke emerging from his nearby storage shed. A neighbor attempted to help extinguish the fire with a garden hose while another called 9-1-1. The call to 9-1-1 came in at 1:32pm for fire at 6900 SW 195th in Aloha, and crews were immediately dispatched to the scene. The first engine from Aloha Station 62 arrived within five minutes and found the shed fully involved with fire extending to the home. Crews initiated an aggressive attack from the outside the home and shed. Crews were informed that residents had escaped the home safely and the no one was inside. Additional crews searched the home and confirmed everyone was out safely including one small dog. Crews had the fire knocked down within ten minutes. Approximately 30 firefighters fought the fire. TVF&R was assisted by Washington County Sheriff's deputies who helped to protect the scene for safety and assist with a language barrier in communicating with the home's residents.

Three adults and one pet were displaced as a result of the fire but no injuries were reported. Given the significant damage to the home, the American Red Cross is assisting the displaced residents.

A TVF&R investigator is still working to determine the cause of the fire.

TVF&R would like to remind everyone that working smoke alarms can save lives. Combined with a family escape plan and central meeting place, families can better prepare themselves in the event of a fire emergency in your home. For more information, please visit www.tvfr.com.

# # #