The American Red Cross and the Trauma Intervention Team were contacted to assist the displaced resident with housing and support services

At approximately 11:16 p.m. on Sunday (Dec. 28), the Vancouver Fire Department responded to a reported apartment fire at the Alder Creek Apartments on Northeast 49th Street in Vancouver.

Fire crews arrived to find light smoke coming from a small, two-story apartment building. Firefighters quickly located the fire on the second floor and were able to put it out rapidly, stopping it from spreading to other apartments. The fire was quickly brought under control and crews remained on scene for approximately two hours to complete overhaul, safety checks, and investigation activities.

A total of 14 fire apparatus and 40 fire personnel responded to the incident. No residents or firefighters were injured.

One resident was displaced due to damage from the fire. The American Red Cross and the Trauma Intervention Team were contacted to assist the displaced resident with housing and support services.

During fire operations, two dogs were removed from the affected apartment. Firefighters immediately attempted lifesaving measures; however, the dogs did not survive. A local animal organization was contacted to assist.

Fire crews conducted thorough searches of the building to ensure all occupants were safely out and checked nearby apartments for any fire spread, which was not found. Clark Public Utilities responded to disconnect power to affected units. A fire investigator arrived on scene to determine the cause and extent of the fire. That investigation remains ongoing.

The Vancouver Fire Department thanks residents for their cooperation during the incident and reminds the public of the importance of working smoke alarms and having an emergency escape plan.

Information provided by the Vancouver Fire Department.