TownSquareBuzz McKinney's Independent News Voice
The McKinney Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire on Barkridge Drive at 3:20 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 5, after McKinney Police units noticed smoke at the rear of a structure. Arriving MFD units reported smoke from the roof of a single family residence and requested a second alarm. A total of 19 MFD apparatus, with 36 personnel responded, declaring the fire under control at 4:15 p.m. Total loss is estimated at $280,000.
The fire, believed to have started in the back yard/patio area by the inappropriate discard of a cigarette, resulted in the treatment and transport of one civilian by MFD ambulance for smoke inhalation. The injury was not considered life-threatening.
The MFD offers the following tips to avoid a smoking materials related fire:
· Only smoke outside.
· Do not discard cigarettes in vegetation such as mulch, potted plants, landscaping or other things that may ignite easily.
· Never smoke in bed.
· Never smoke if you are sleepy.
· Always douse butts and ashes in water or sand prior to disposal to ensure that they are completely extinguished.
For additional information on smoking safety visit www.nfpa.org/education.
