From the smoke detector's first alarming screech, there’s typically about two or three minutes to safely escape a burning house.
As Toledo reports its third fatal fire in about a month, city officials again urge caution to ensure home safety: Install and check smoke detectors. Follow guidelines with space heaters. Develop an escape plan.
Firefighters responding at 3:53 a.m. Wednesday to 329 E. Streicher St. in North Toledo reported heavy fire upon arrival and learned a woman was inside an upstairs bedroom.
Authorities identified the woman, who perished, as Gloria Scott. Her age was not immediately available. A dog died in the fire as well.
Investigators have not yet determined the fire’s cause but said it did not appear suspicious. The home sustained about $27,000 in damage, said Pvt. Sterling Rahe, the department spokesman.
There was no evidence of working smoke detectors or alarms in the home, Private Rahe said.
Toledo residents can ask for a free smoke detector at any city firehouse. The department distributed 1,961 detectors last year and 1,631 so far this year.
People may also be reluctant to turn on their furnaces early in the fall, and seek alternatives like space heaters, Private Rahe said.
“We just ask people use them wisely,” Private Rahe said.
Private Rahe suggested using newer-style space heaters with cords that are not frayed. Residents should follow manufacturer guidelines, keep them three feet from any combustible materials, and ensure the devices are not left unattended.
“Never use any type of extension cords or power strips with these types of devices. Make sure they are plugged directly into the wall,” Private Rahe said.
Ms. Scott's death followed two other recent fatal fires. A man died at a Sept. 16 fire at Miracle Manor Apartments in the 5000 block of Jamieson Drive in West Toledo, and a central Toledo man died Friday in a house fire in the 2500 block of Maplewood Avenue.
The fire department reported six civilian fatalities and 22 fire-related injuries last year. There have been six deaths and nine injuries so far this year.
Contact Ryan Dunn at rdunn@theblade.com, 419-724-6095, or on Twitter @RDunnBlade.
First Published October 17, 2018, 12:57 p.m.
