TVF&R Fire Investigators have determined that today’s fire at 6495 Horton Road, West Linn, was likely caused by a burning ember from the home’s fireplace igniting the shake roof. The home owner’s 9-1-1 call just prior to 4 PM brought a response from 25 firefighters from TVF&R, Lake Oswego Fire & Rescue, and Clackamas Fire District 1.
TVF&R Engine 58 was first to arrive and reported that the roof was on fire. As more units arrived, firefighters attacked the fire from both inside and outside the the home. Those working inside the structure removed portions of the second floor ceiling to access the flames. The fire was controlled in approximately 30 minutes.
The homeowners reported burning several branches from their Christmas tree in the fireplace prior to discovering the blaze. A Christmas tree should never be burned in a residential fireplace. Embers are common as the tree burns with explosive speed; creosote build-up in the chimney can also occur and lead to a chimney fire. Recycle your tree at an area location, or limb it up and place it with your curbside green waste recycling. For community-specific directions on Christmas tree recycling, go to http://www.oregonmetro.gov/index.cfm/go/by.web/id=24923
There were no injuries as result of the fire. Damage to the home and contents is estimated at $125,000.
