3 Story Residential Multiple Alarm Structure Fire in Daly City

On October 1, 2015 at 5:40 a.m., 16 Fire Companies, 7 Chief Officers, 1 EMS Battalion, 2 Medic Transport Units, 1 Breathing Support Unit, 1 Fire Investigator, 1 Information Officer and Daly City Police Units responded to a 3 Alarm Structure Fire involving a 3 Story Residential Building, 33 Knowles Avenue located in the City of Daly City.

The first arriving fire company found a 3-Story Residential Building fully charged with heavy smoke coming from all floors of the structure.  Fire companies made entry into the building and using hose lines, worked aggressively to extinguish the flames and at the same time completed a search and rescue operation looking for occupants. It was determined after the search of the residence that there were no occupants inside as all residents had self-evacuated.  Firefighters continued the fire fight, as flames had extended into concealed areas within the walls and ceilings on all floors, as well as traveled up an into the 3^rd story attic space due to the balloon construction type and framing of the building. There was also significant damage to an adjoining 2 Story Residential building.  The fire was contained in approximately 2 hours with extensive salvage and overhaul operations continuing.

Fire companies will remain on scene for most of the day checking for fire extension, completing overhaul and mop up operations. There were 2 firefighters transported to the hospital for evaluation, however there were no injuries to civilians. Five residents who lived in the two involved structures were displaced by the fire, but made their own arrangements for temporary housing, although American Red Cross was requested and came to the scene to provide assistance if necessary.

The cause of the fire is under investigation by the North County Fire Prevention Services Bureau.

The North County Fire Authority wants to remind everyone of the importance of installing and maintaining smoke detectors their homes.