HOLLAND (WHTC-AM/FM) — Holland firefighters doused an early morning garage blaze in the 100 block of 16th Street.
Police traced the scent of smoke just after midnight on Tuesday, Oct. 11, 2018, alerting firefighters, said Fire Marshal Bret Groendyke. As of Tuesday afternoon, the fire investigators were sifting out possible causes and what, exactly, burned up in the free-standing two-stall garage. Groendyke said fire investigation is complicated.
No one was injured, he said, not even a pet. Firefighters were on the scene for at least two hours, knocking down the blaze and making sure it stayed out. The intensity of the heat reached a point where some of the vinyl siding of the house melted, Groendyke said.
Holland resident Meagan Brink captured a bit of the fire with her phone’s camera — posted it on Facebook, and gave WHTC permission to share it.
The fire is a good opportunity to remind residents of a few safety tips. Groendyke said everyone should take time to check the smoke detectors in their home — making sure there’s a unit on each floor and they are properly hardwired and have fresh batteries.
He said people with garages should take time this week, if possible to clear out any debris and ensure that gas-powered devices are stored separately from rags or anything that might be flammable.
Listen to the complete podcast here: https://whtc.com/podcasts/whtc-news/2232/holland-fire-marshal-bret-groendyke-10162018/
