Calgary Fire crews respond to Inglewood basement fire

Calgary Fire Department (CFD) crews were dispatched at approximately 2:30 p.m. today, following reports of a house fire on New Place S.E. 
When firefighters arrived on scene, they encountered thick, dark smoke coming from the basement of the single-family home. Four residents had self-evacuated prior to CFD’s arrival. 
Two cats and one snake were initially reported missing. Sadly, only one cat was found alive. No injuries to residents have been reported. 
The fire originated in the basement and caused significant damage to the home. The residents will be displaced and will need to find alternative accommodations. 
It is not yet known whether working smoke alarms were present in the home. ATCO and Enmax were called to the scene to disconnect utilities. A Calgary Fire Department investigator is on scene to determine the origin and cause of the fire. 
The Calgary Fire Department would like to remind all Calgarians about the importance of fire prevention and early detection: 
• Smoke alarms save lives. Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, including the basement and outside all sleeping areas. 
• Test smoke alarms monthly and replace the batteries at least once a year—or whenever you hear the low-battery chirp. 
• Replace smoke alarms every 10 years, even if they still seem to work. 
• Plan and practice a home escape plan with everyone in your household. Identify two ways out of every room and a safe meeting place outside. 
• Make sure everyone knows to get out and stay out—never re-enter a burning building to retrieve pets or belongings. 
For more information on smoke alarms, home escape planning, and other fire safety tips, please visit calgary.ca/fire. 

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