WPOFD: Quick response, smoke alarm helped save home

West Pend Oreille Fire District officials are crediting a working smoke alarm to the department's quick arrival — and preventing a potential tragedy.

WPOFD was alerted to the Oldtown structure fire Sunday, Oct. 26, on Silver Birch Lane at 2:44 p.m. Seven fire vehicles and 14 volunteer firefighters were dispatched to the scene after the 911 call to Bonner Dispatch, West Pend Oreille Fire Chief Jamie Painton said. WPOFD Deputy Chief Jay Lange served as incident commander.

Painton credited a working smoke alarm and WPOFD's quick arrival and fast attack procedures for preventing fire damage to the Oldtown residence.

"Take the time to change the batteries in your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors when you change your clock and fall back," Painton said. "Also remember smoke detectors should be replaced and installed properly based on the manufacturer's recommendations."  

Painton said the assistance of partnering agencies also helped, thanking Bonner County Sheriff, Bonner County EMS and Priest River Police.

Many local and national fire officials recommend checking smoke alarms and replacing the devices batteries each year during when daylight saving time ends.

The Idaho State Fire Marshal's Office recommends replacing smoke alarm batteries at least one a year, unless sealed 10-year lithium battery models are used. Alarms should be tested monthly with the entire device being replaced every 10 years.

Individuals should not disable the device due to "nuisance chirping;" instead, ISFM officials said that it often indicates either a low battery or an expired smoke alarm.

Many departments, including Sandpoint Fire, often offer smoke detector checks and free rentals of chimney cleaning supplies.

    WPOFD firefighters are shown with a thermal temperature device at the scene of an Oldtown structure fire on Oct. 26.