By Genevieve Judge, Local News 8 Reporter
POCATELLO - We haven't gone a night in the last week without telling you about a house fire in eastern Idaho. In Pocatello alone on Friday, two house fires happened within two hours of each other. Monday there was a fire in Rigby. So what can you do to prevent your home from going up in flames like so many others?
It's a homeowners worst nightmare, losing everything to a fire. With winter weather here to stay basic fire safety at home is key.
"We've had candle fires. They're on the counter and people forget that they're there. They smell good and everything in the home but it's not something that should be left unattended," said Captain Brian Maynard, Pocatello Fire Department Fire Prevention Bureau
Captain Maynard says a big problem is people forgetting about things. While watching TV or talking on the phone, fires can start in a split second.
"Most of our neglect type fires are really a shame because they are fires that didn't have to happen," said Maynard.
Another issue is the way you heat your home. If it be baseboard or by a furnace, make sure dust is cleaned out.
Firefighters say if you are heating your home or apartment using baseboard heaters, it's a good idea to make sure and move things like blankets and stereo equipment at least two feet away so that they don't catch fire.
Friday's fire at a home on Arthur in Pocatello has been ruled electrical. An investigation is still underway for the fire on Santa Anita in Pocatello. Firefighters believe it was an accident because of a cooking incident.
"Be there. Don't get distracted. When you're cooking, be there where the heat and fire is. Have a fire extinguisher in the kitchen," said Maynard.
Accidents aren't the only way fires start. Two people could be facing felony arson charges for starting a fire at a home on West Clark Street in Pocatello November 9th. Sergeant Ian Nelson with the Pocatello Police Department says if you start a fire on purpose you could destroy homes and lives.
"We literally go down to bare floor when we look for evidence. If you do decide to start fires deliberately, you have to think about the consequences first. First degree arson carries a penalty of up to 25 years in prison and or a $100,000 fine," said Sgt. Nelson.
Firefighters say this time of year people get distracted easily. They say know when you're in over your head.
"Most times it's better to leave the house, get everybody out of the house and call the fire department," said Maynard.
Since October 1st, firefighters in Chubbuck have had one house fire to respond to. In Pocatello, 64 fires have been reported and 14 of those have been structure fires. Firefighters also add that most fires will double every 30 to 60 seconds so within minutes an entire room can be ablaze.
