by BECKY GOFF
Little Apple Post
RILEY COUNTY - On Wednesday, July 5th, just after midnight, the Riley County Fire District #1 was called out to the report of a structure fire at 12261 Walnut Creek Road in northern Riley County.
When crews arrived on scene, they found a garage fully engulfed in fire, which had spread to the attic space of the home.
Volunteer firefighters were able to stop the fire from causing further damage to the residence.
Crews successfully extinguished the blaze and stayed on scene for several hours to check on hot spots and complete mop-up of the burned area.
Four occupants and a cat were evacuated safely from the home, no injuries were reported.
Fire crews determined the cause of the fire to be leftover firework debris stored in a trash bin inside the garage.
The fire caused extensive damage to the structure and contents, including two vehicles, tools and several pieces of equipment.
The total estimated loss was not available at the time of the media release by Riley County Fire District #1.
“We’re grateful for all the personnel who responded and thankful the occupants were able to get out safely,” said Deputy Fire Chief Doug Russell. “Unfortunately, fireworks and fireworks debris continue to be dangerous even after they’ve been used. The best advice is to let fireworks debris cool completely, wet the materials with water, and store outdoors in a metal container with a lid, not inside a structure, for disposal.”
Find fireworks safety tips from the Kansas Fire Marshal at https://www.firemarshal.ks.gov/216/Fireworks-Safety
To learn more about Riley County Fire District #1 or apply to become a volunteer, visit rileycountyks.gov/fire or call 785-537-6333 during business hours.