House Fire Sparked By Child Playing With Lighter: Con Fire

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY, CA — A house fire that displaced a family and injured a firefighter with the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District was caused by a child playing with a lighter, Patch learned Friday.

"It was determined one of the children in the house was playing with a lighter and caused the fire," Con Fire Capt. Christopher Toler told Patch.

The blaze was reported at 6:22 p.m. Tuesday at 292 Calais Dr. in Pinole. A large column of smoke was visible from the fire station. Upon arrival, the crew from Engine 73 found the front of the home heavily involved.

All residents were reportedly out of the home as the crew from Engine 73 began an initial fire attack, according to a report from District 7 Acting Battalion Chief Andy Bozzo and District 1 Assistant Fire Chief Lon Goetsch.

Firefighters used an offensive strategy of attacking the fire from the inside while also searching for anyone possibly still in the home and working on ventilation.

Five engine crews were among 23 fire personnel who responded to the incident.

The blaze caused significant damage but was prevented from spreading farther into the home or to any adjacent homes.

Once the fire was out, firefighters performed extensive salvage and overhaul work.

The firefighter who suffered an injury was taken to a hospital by Con Fire's safety officer for evaluation and treatment. Toler was working to get an update Friday on the firefighter's condition.

No civilians were injured but the residents of the home were displaced. They planned to stay with relatives and declined support from the American Red Cross.

Crews from Crockett-Carquinez and Contra Costa County engine companies —Martinez and San Pablo— provided coverage in Pinole, Rodeo and El Sobrante during the incident.