Liberal Fire Department Responds To Two Fires Over The Weekend

The Liberal Fire Department responded to two working fires over the weekend. Both resulting in significant losses of property, but fortunately no injuries were reported.

The first call was to 120 S. Sherman Ave. on Saturday 11th at 12:36 pm. The initial reports indicated a residential structure fire. However first arriving police and fire units reported the fire to actually be a storage shed fully involved and extending to fences, trees & grass and nearby utility lines & meters. The fire also provided a serious threat to two residences and was driven by high wind conditions. The fire department responded with 2 pumpers and 13 personnel. The fire was declared under control at 12:52 pm. Fire units remained on scene conducting overhaul and investigation efforts until 2:08 pm. No civilian or fire service injuries have been reported from this incident. The exact cause of the fire remains undetermined at this time. The shed, its contents and two fences were a total loss with significant damage to a gas meter and overhead cable lines. All fire units were back in service at 2:47 pm. Also assisting at the scene of the fire were the Liberal Police Department and Seward County Sheriff & EMS.

The second fire was located at 115 S. Western Ave. Lot #21 on Sunday 12th at 10:39 pm. The initial reports from citizens were for a residential fire with significant fire showing from the rear of the structure. First arriving police and fire units reported the structure to be vacant and fully involved. The fire department responded with 2 pumpers and 14 personnel. The fire was declared under control at 10:59 pm. Neighbors reported that the residence had been vacant for several months. The structure was a total loss and fire units remained on scene conducting overhaul and investigation efforts until 12:12 am. No civilian or fire service injuries have been reported from this incident. The exact cause of the fire remains undetermined at this time. All fire units were back in service at 12:57 am. Also assisting at the scene of the fire were the Liberal Police Department and Seward County & EMS.

Let these fires serve as a reminder that the winter months, November through February, are the most dangerous and deadly months for residential fires. The fire department urges citizens to take extra caution and be mindful of their actions to prevent fires of any type. Please exercise care with heating and cooking appliances. Have your heating equipment serviced by professionals and keep up regular maintenance on filters and inspect flue pipes to ensure proper operation. Exercise extreme caution with alternative heat sources and space heaters not designed for continuous use to heat an entire residence, and keep them clear of all combustible objects by at least 36 ? . Use fireplaces responsibly and take necessary precautions in discarding of embers and ash, which can smolder for 48 to 72 hours. Take precautions not to overload electrical outlets with Christmas decorations, equipment or appliances. And finally have working smoke detectors on every floor of your home, preferably near sleeping areas. Change the batteries and test these detectors often to ensure proper operation. Smoke detectors are an easy and reliable way to provide early warning for fast escape in the event a fire should occur in your home. We wish everyone a SAFE and happy holiday season! Citizens with questions or concerns can call the fire department at 626-0128, we will be happy to provide whatever assistance or information that we can.