News Summary
A fire at Spring Meadow Apartment Homes in East Knoxville displaced 14 residents and led to the evacuation of four units. Fortunately, no injuries were reported as firefighters responded quickly to extinguish the flames. The fire was caused by a discarded cigarette in a flammable flower pot, underscoring the hazards of careless smoking. Community organizations may provide support to those affected as they seek temporary accommodations after the incident.
Knoxville Fire Displaces Residents Due to Careless Smoking
A fire that broke out at the Spring Meadow Apartment Homes in East Knoxville on Saturday afternoon has displaced 14 residents and led to the evacuation of four units. Fortunately, no injuries were reported among the residents or their pets, as crews responded quickly to extinguish the flames.
Incident Overview
The Knoxville Fire Department (KFD) was notified of the fire at approximately 3:54 p.m. on May 10. When firefighters arrived shortly after 5 p.m., they found heavy smoke and flames coming from the rear section of the second floor of a two-story building situated near Keith Avenue and Weston Avenue. Fire crews managed to bring the situation under control within 10 minutes, successfully confining the fire to a single apartment and an adjacent section of the upper floor’s outdoor deck.
Damage Assessment
While the apartment where the fire originated sustained moderate fire damage, other units experienced only minimal smoke damage. A total of eight units were affected, impacting approximately 22 individuals. KFD reported that three dogs and two cats were able to safely escape the incident.
Causation and Safety Recommendations
Investigators determined that the fire was ignited by a discarded cigarette that had been tossed into a flammable flower pot. Assistant Chief Mark Wilbanks highlighted the risks associated with careless smoking, pointing out that a single smoldering cigarette can catch nearby combustibles on fire and lead to significant incidents. The temperature in a flower pot can rise over time, causing flames to become evident much later after the initial ignition.
Response Actions
The Knoxville Utilities Board made the decision to cut off power to the building as part of their emergency response protocol. This resulted in the immediate evacuation of four units to ensure the safety of the residents during the firefighting efforts. Images taken from the scene showed flames leaping from the roof of the complex as crews worked diligently to control the situation.
Community Impact
The consequences of the fire extend beyond just the physical damages. The displacement of 14 residents places additional stress on these individuals and families as they seek temporary accommodations and support. Community organizations may mobilize to assist those affected with resources and services during this challenging time.
Fire Safety Awareness
In light of this incident, KFD has reiterated the importance of proper smoking practices. Residents are urged to utilize non-combustible ashtrays placed on stable surfaces to safely extinguish cigarettes. Proper disposal of smoking materials can prevent future incidents and ensure a safer community.
Conclusion
The recent fire at Spring Meadow Apartment Homes serves as a crucial reminder of the hazards associated with improper disposal of smoking materials. As the community rallies to support the displaced residents, it highlights the need for heightened awareness regarding fire safety in residential areas.
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Additional Resources
- WBIR: Keith Avenue Apartment Fire
- Wikipedia: Fire Safety
- WATE: Twenty-Two People Affected by Fire
- Google Search: Fire Prevention Tips
- WBIR: KFD Apartment Fire Video Report
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Fire
- WATE: Cause of Spring Meadow Apartment Fire Revealed
- Google News: Fire Safety and Prevention
