Shreveport Firefighters Respond to Gas Stove Fire

News Summary

A house fire in Shreveport, Louisiana, linked to a gas stove left on by the homeowner, broke out on December 22. Firefighters arrived within five minutes and fought the blaze with a total of 21 personnel across eight units, fortunately resulting in no injuries. The incident highlights the importance of safe heating practices, especially during winter months. Fire officials advise against using stoves as a primary source of warmth and recommend annual servicing of heating systems.

Shreveport Firefighters Battle Blaze Linked to Gas Stove

In a startling turn of events, Shreveport, Louisiana, witnessed a dramatic house fire on Sunday, December 22, at precisely 1:34 p.m. The incident took place in the 1700 block of George Washington Carver Avenue, a neighborhood within the city’s vibrant Martin Luther King Jr. community.

The chaos began when the homeowner returned home only to discover flames rapidly engulfing their residence. The alarming sight prompted an immediate call to 911, leaving the homeowner understandably shaken. It turns out, the fire was ignited after the homeowner left a
gas stove on to warm their home – a decision that unfortunately led to this frightening fire.

Firefighters Spring into Action

Quick-thinking firefighters sprang into action, with Engine 6 arriving at the scene within a remarkable five minutes of the emergency call. Upon arrival, the crew was greeted with a distressing sight: flames were licking the sides of the one-story manufactured house. It was clear that this fire could spread quickly if not controlled.

A total of 21 seasoned firefighters were dispatched, working diligently across eight units to fight the blaze and bring the situation under control. Thanks to their swift response and expertise, the property was protected from further devastation, and fortunately, no injuries were reported.

Winter Heating Risks Highlighted

In light of this incident, fire department spokesman Jeffrey Witte emphasized the importance of safety when it comes to home heating. During the colder months, people often turn to various heating methods, but Witte cautioned against using stoves as a primary source of warmth. He pointed out that this approach can be hazardous and lead to dangerous fires.

Homeowners are advised to take safety precautions to prevent such incidents. One of the key recommendations is to have central heating systems serviced annually by a licensed technician, ensuring that everything is working safely and efficiently. In addition, if you opt to use alternative heating sources, it’s crucial to utilize UL-approved space heaters and to follow safe practices, especially when dealing with flammable materials.

Emergency Preparedness is Key

As winter sets in, incidents like this serve as a stark reminder to be vigilant with heating practices. The fire department is calling on all residents to avoid using their stoves as a means of heating their homes. Instead, sticking to established heating methods is the safest route.

While it is easy to create warmth using what we already have in our kitchens, this unfortunate event illustrates that convenience can come at a greater cost. Everyone is encouraged to take responsible measures and plan ahead for heating needs this winter.

In conclusion, as we brave the chilly winter days in Shreveport, let’s keep safety at the forefront. Always consider the best and safest practices when it comes to keeping our homes warm. Remember, a little caution goes a long way in keeping our loved ones and our properties safe.