City of Russell Fire Department
At 3:02 p.m. Sunday, a structure fire was reported at 435 E. Third St. Upon arrival, the responding crews observed a fire emanating from the back of the house, specifically in the kitchen area.
The crews were able to successfully access the building through a side door and extinguish the fire. Engine 2 responded to the Third Street fire, while Ladder 1 was redirected to a fire that was reported on Brooks Street.
The house fire at 435 E. Third St. sustained significant fire damage, and a cat perished in the fire. The investigation revealed the fire originated from a space heater plugged into a surge protector.
At 3:11 p.m., a second structure fire was reported at 1306 N. Brooks, where law enforcement reported a fire in the attached garage.
Mutual aid was activated, and Russell Grant and ladder 1 worked swiftly to suppress the fire and confine it to the garage area.
The cause of the second fire was determined to be a malfunctioning refrigerator in the garage.
Minimal damage was reported to the area around the garage, and no extension was observed into the residence. Once crews finished with the Brooks Street fire, they responded to assist with the Third Street fire.
Crews cleared the scene of the Third Street fire shortly before 5:30 p.m.
The City of Russell Fire Department extends its gratitude to Russell Grant Fire Department, Russell County EMS, Russell Electric Department, Russell Water Department, Russell County 911, Russell Police Department and the Russell County Sheriff’s Office for their invaluable assistance.
The city of Russell Fire Department would like to remind everyone that if you utilize space heaters, they need to be plugged directly into the wall. Furthermore, if you see a fire, please avoid the area and respect the scene so crews can work to put the fire out. You should never approach an emergency scene unless given permission.