February 3, 2009 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (SH2009-07) FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION R. Steve Huffman Public Information Officer (251) 208-2857/Fax: (251) 208-2861 E-Mail: huffman@cityofmobile.org FIREPLACE RESPONSIBLE FOR FIRE DAMAGE Mobile Fire Investigators have determined that a house fire located at 1854 Le Jeune Court Tuesday morning, February 3 was caused by heat conducted from an “Insert Fireplace” Firefighters were called to respond to the single story residence at approximately 6:42 a.m. and arrived at approximately 6:49 a.m. reporting smoke visible from the structure. Fire Investigators determined that the fire was caused when heat conducted from the chimney pipe onto wood it was making contact with from the structure. The fire extended into the attic and caused an estimated $25 thousand in damage. The fireplace was an insert type fireplace and not part of the original structure and apparently the piping insulation was not adequate or came loose at some point causing the pipe to make contact with the structure. No injuries were reported. Engines 12, 15, 18, truck 10, rescue 18 and District Chief Ronnie Morgan responded. The fire is being investigated by the Mobile Fire-Rescue Department’s Fire Marshal’s Office. Mobile Fire-Rescue Department reminds residents that it will be colder in the coming nights/days and to practice safe heating procedures to prevent fires. ###