Columbia Fire Department responds to residential structure fire, Sept. 8

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(COLUMBIA, MO) ~ Columbia Fire Department Responds to Fatal Residential Fire on Derby Ridge Drive

In the early hours of Monday, Sept. 8, the Columbia Fire Department (CFD) received a call at 1:44 a.m. reporting a residential structure fire in the 4700 block of Derby Ridge Drive. Within six minutes, CFD units arrived at the scene to find a single-story home engulfed in flames.

The firefighters quickly sprang into action, initiating an aggressive attack on the fire. After 30 minutes of intense efforts, they were able to bring the fire under control. A total of 14 units and 28 personnel responded to the scene.

During their operations, the firefighters performed an aggressive ventilation-enter-search (VES) procedure. This involved splitting Ladder 1's four-person crew into two teams to search for any occupants inside the burning home. The crews made simultaneous entry through windows in two separate bedrooms and were able to locate two adult occupants within just 30 seconds of each other.

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The firefighters immediately began performing CPR on both patients and then transferred primary care to Emergency Medical Services (EMS). As part of their treatment, EMS administered CYANOKIT, a medication specifically designed to counteract cyanide poisoning - a dangerous condition that can result from smoke inhalation during structure fires.

According to CFD Chief Brian Schaeffer, cyanide is a highly toxic gas commonly present in fire smoke, making rapid intervention crucial. He also mentioned that earlier this year, CFD deployed CYANOKITs to all units in the field, ensuring that crews have access to this lifesaving medication when every second counts.

Despite their best efforts, one patient unfortunately passed away at the scene while another was transferred to a local hospital in critical condition. The next of kin has been notified about this tragic incident. Additionally, two cats were also found deceased at the scene.

Chief Schaeffer emphasized that this incident serves as a reminder of the importance of proper staffing, training, and equipment for firefighters. He praised the first-due ladder crew for their bravery and quick thinking in splitting their team and entering the burning home through windows to rescue the two occupants. He also expressed his pride in the department's progress and its ability to turn seemingly impossible situations into survivable ones.

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The cause of the fire is currently under investigation by Columbia Fire Marshals. Crews will remain on scene to assist with the investigation and ensure that any hidden fires are extinguished.

In light of this tragic event, the Columbia Fire Department is reminding residents about the importance of having working smoke alarms in their homes. Smoke alarms should be placed on every level of a home, including outside sleeping areas. It is recommended to test smoke alarms monthly and change batteries at least twice a year when adjusting clocks for Daylight Saving Time. Smoke alarms over 10 years old should be replaced.

The community is urged to take these safety measures seriously as they can save lives in case of a fire emergency. The Columbia Fire Department also extends its condolences to those affected by this devastating incident.

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