Urgent Call to Action After Another Vacant House Fire in Shreveport
Shreveport is in the news again, but this time it’s about something quite troubling: a vacant house going up in flames. On Tuesday morning, firefighters rushed to the scene of the fire at a vacant two-story home located in the 100 block of Holtzman Avenue, responding to an emergency call around 9:15 a.m.
Fire Department Responds Swiftly
The Shreveport Fire Department (SFD) arrived on the scene to find heavy smoke billowing out of the structure and flames licking at the edges of the roof. With a team of 22 dedicated firefighters working tirelessly, they managed to get the fire under control by 9:31 a.m. Thankfully, since no one was living in the house, no injuries were reported.
A Worrying Trend
But even with this quick response, it highlights a growing concern in the community. According to the fire department, this incident marks one of approximately 30 vacant structure fires reported so far in 2024, with eight occurring just this month. This troubling trend has prompted the SFD to urge local property owners to take immediate action concerning their vacant properties.
The Investigation Continues
As of now, the cause of Tuesday’s fire and the full extent of the damage is still under investigation. It’s critical to keep an eye on vacant properties, as they can quickly become hazards if not properly maintained.
Tips for Property Owners
In light of these concerning incidents, the Shreveport Fire Department has shared some important tips to help prevent fires in vacant properties:
- Secure Your Property: Ensure that all doors and windows are locked and secured to prevent unauthorized entry.
- Remove Flammable Materials: Keeping the premises clear of any flammable materials, such as old papers, furniture, and trash, can significantly reduce the fire risk.
- Regular Inspections: Make a habit of checking on your vacant properties. Look for any signs of vandalism or break-ins that could lead to hazardous situations.
- Maintain Landscaping: Overgrown vegetation can pose a fire hazard, so keep the yard tidy and well-maintained.
- Consider Surveillance: Installing security cameras can help monitor your property when you’re not around, acting as both a deterrent to potential trespassers and a way to catch any dangerous activities before they escalate.
Community Responsibility
It’s a reminder for all of us in Shreveport to look out for one another. Vacant homes can quickly turn into dangerous liabilities if not properly cared for. If you know of any empty properties in your neighborhood, take the initiative to encourage the owners to take preventive measures. Staying proactive could save lives and property down the line.
Shreveport, let’s do our part to ensure our community is safe and free from fire dangers. This recent incident may serve as a wake-up call for property owners to recognize the risks associated with vacant houses and take the necessary steps to protect not only their assets but the entire neighborhood.
Let’s rally together to keep our city safe! If you notice any vacant homes that may be at risk, don’t hesitate to reach out to the property owners or local authorities. Your vigilance could very well make a difference!
