Fireworks-sparked fires destroy two Bend homes

(Update: Other house fire also due to improper fireworks disposal; adding viewer video)

A pair of fires destroyed a home on Awbrey Butte and a mobile home in southeast Bend late Thursday night and early Friday — and both were caused by improper disposal of legal Fourth of July fireworks, officials said Friday,

The first fire, reported to Deschutes County 911 by callers shortly before midnight, began in the garage, spread and destroyed a home in the 3100 block of Northwest Craftsman Drive on Awbrey Butte. Deputy Fire Marshal Dan Derlacki said.

Crews arrived to find a fire in the garage, spreading throughout the home, and began work to put it out, he said. Some members of the family were away on vacation, but one was home at the time.

Due to the extent of damage, fire crews were unable to safely enter the structure immediately. Derlacki said crews were on the scene throughout the night to monitor and make sure the fire was out. The public was asked to stay clear of the area Friday while crews continued their work at the scene into the afternoon.

Derlacki said the fire was caused by improper disposal of legal fireworks. The spent fireworks were placed in a trash can in the garage without first soaking in water. Soaking used fireworks for at least a day will prevent the accidental ignition of the fireworks or other materials, he said.

Derlacki said the home appeared to be a complete loss, with most of the contents damaged or destroyed as well. Losses were estimated at $600,000 to the home, $300,000 worth of contents and a $25,000 vehicle.

Derlacki also said the homeowners were on vacation and the adult son who also lives there had friends over. He said the son had gone out to get another friend when the fire was spotted by neighbors and other friends at the house, and he returned home a short time later.

Just minutes later, around 12:15 a.m., firefighters responded to a reported carport fire in the Country Sunset Mobile Home Park on Southeast 27th Street.

The fire was spreading to the adjacent home when crews arrived. The fire extensively damaged the home and carport before being put out, but all five family members escaped, Derlacki said.

That home also was destroyed, with losses estimated at $20,000 for the structure and all $10,000 worth of contents.

Derlacki said that fire also was caused by improper disposal of legal fireworks after their use. They were placed in a cardboard box, which was put in the carport. The fire was noticed a few hours later, he said.

Derlacki reminded residents that used fireworks need to be properly cooled before being disposed of. The best way to dispose of them is to place them in a bucket of water to soak for at least 24 hours before putting them in any other container or the trash. More information can be found at http://www.bendoregon/gov/fireworks.