For Immediate Release:

Response to Dumpster Fire Leads to Discovery of Set Fires in Structure

Columbia Fire Fighters were called at 11:18 pm on Monday, May 15, 2012, to 301 W Ash Street for a reported small outside fire.

Upon their arrival crews reported smoke and flames coming from a dumpster on the east side of the residence. While extinguishing the dumpster fire crews noticed multiple small fires inside the residence at 301 W Ash. Crews upgraded the response to a structure fire response and then began the process of extinguishing these smaller fires. The fires were knocked down in approximately 3 minutes.

Assistant Fire Marshal Tim Bach was called to the scene to investigate the fire and determined the fires to be set. He also issued a preliminary damage estimate of $500.00. One individual was taken into custody at the scene by CPD and transported to the Police Station. There were no injuries associated with this incident.

The Columbia Fire Department wants to remind residents that working smoke alarms do save lives. Test your smoke alarms at least once a month by pressing the test button. Replace smoke alarm batteries at least once a year. Replace smoke alarms every 10 years. To ensure adequate protection, place smoke alarms in every sleeping room, and in a common area on every floor. If you can not afford a smoke alarm, call the Columbia Fire Department at 573-874-7556 to schedule an appointment to have free smoke alarms installed. For residences who need assistance in checking their smoke alarms, they can also contact the Columbia Fire Department.