South Lake Tahoe fire causes $400,000 in damage

A quick response by South Lake Tahoe Fire Rescue (SLTFR) saved a Merced Avenue four-plex from major damage Wednesday night.

At 10:54 p.m. December 14, SLTFR received a call of fire in one of the four two-story units. When they arrived they found the bottom floor engulfed. Within seven minutes, the fire was knocked down according to South Lake Tahoe Fire Chief Jeff Meston.

The four residents of the condo were outside of their home smoking at the time of the fire and ran back inside to get their pet and some belongings. They were all slightly singed and suffered minor burns. "They are fortunate," said Meston. "Going back into a burning building is never advisable."

According to Meston it looks like burning candles in the residence caused the fire which resulted in an estimated $400,000 in damage to the single unit. The other three units were not damaged and those residents were able to stay in their homes.

The four from the burned unit were assisted by the Red Cross in finding accommodations. The building department is looking at the damage today and the home remains red flagged so it cannot be occupied.

Two SLTFR engines were joined by one from each Lake Valley and Tahoe Douglas Fire Departments. One SLTFR firefighter suffered a twister ankle and was treated back at the station.