GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Grand Rapids Firefighters had to call a second alarm Tuesday afternoon at a 4-unit residential instruction near 28th Street and Kalamazoo Avenue.
The first crews that made it to the area found heavy smoke along the roof, and then a heavy fire began.
Firefighters had to back off and move to defensive efforts.
Fire Marshal Bill Smith told 13 ON YOUR SIDE a dog died in the fire and about 10 people are displaced.
The Grand Rapids Fire Department said early investigation leads them to believe the fire may have been caused by a generator being too close to the home.
This is a developing story. Check back in for updates.
Generator Safety:
- The primary hazards to avoid when using a generator are carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning from the toxic engine exhaust, electric shock or electrocution, and fire. Follow the directions supplied with the generator.
- Use generators and fuel outdoors, at least 20 feet away from windows, doors, and attached garages.
- Install working carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home.
- Keep generators dry and protected from rain or flooding. Touching a wet generator can cause electrical shock.
- Connect generators to appliances with heavy-duty extension cords.
- Let generators cool before refueling to avoid igniting spilled fuel.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
Lights on after dark:
- Have flashlights and battery-powered lighting ready. We strongly advise to never use candles during a power outage.
- Blow out all candles when you leave the room or go to bed.
- Avoid using candles in bedrooms or other areas where people may fall asleep.
- Keep candles at least 1 foot (30 cm) away from anything that can burn.
- Use sturdy candle holders on uncluttered surfaces.
- Light candles carefully and keep hair and loose clothing away from the flame.
- Don’t burn candles all the way down; extinguish them before they get too close to the holder or container.
- Never use candles if oxygen is used in the home.
- Have flashlights and battery-powered lighting ready. We strongly advise to never use candles during a power outage
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