All occupants were able to escape the house safely

Shortly after a shift change at 7:15 a.m. Sunday (March 10), the Vancouver Fire Department was dispatched to the report of a house fire at the 13600 block of NE 36th Street. 

Responding units noticed a large column of smoke rising from miles away. The first fire engine arrived within five minutes and found heavy smoke and fire in the back of a residence that extended to several outbuildings and involved several 100-foot fir trees. Explosions could be heard from blocks away, possibly due to propane tanks. All occupants were able to escape the house safely. 

A second alarm was requested by units on scene as there was concern that the fire had extended to several other homes. Hose lines were stretched from multiple engines to surround the fire and quickly halt its progress but not after several trees, sheds and fence lines were damaged. The fire was under control within 30 minutes, but crews were on scene for several hours putting out hot spots. 

Approximately eight fire units were on scene with a total of about 24 firefighters. No injuries were reported. The Red Cross responded to assist with seven people who were displaced. The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Vancouver Fire Marshal’s Office.

Information provided by the Vancouver Fire Department.