On Wednesday, Jan. 7, at 5:38 a.m., a 9-1-1 call was received reporting smoke and fire in a single-family residence in the 700 block of San Pablo Drive. The building's occupants self-evacuated before firefighters arrived.

Fire units were dispatched at 5:38 a.m. and arrived on the scene at 5:45 a.m. Units arrived to find smoke coming from the attached garage of a single-story home. Firefighters quickly extinguished the flames with a fire-attack hose line, preventing the fire from spreading further into the home or to neighboring residences. Firefighters rescued two dogs from the residence and reunited them with the residents.

Firefighters performed an extensive overhaul of the garage, cutting open walls and ceiling to ensure complete extinguishment of the flames. Firefighters used thermal imaging cameras to measure heat behind the drywall and in the attic, ensuring the fire did not spread.

The fire was extinguished with no injuries. The Mountain View Police Department provided traffic control for three hours while fire units and equipment were on the scene. The City of Mountain View Building Department responded to assist as well.

The residents received a $250 gift card from the California Professional Firefighters Union Supplying Aid to Victims of Emergency Program. Due to smoke damage and the disconnection of the gas and electric utilities, the American Red Cross was contacted to coordinate temporary housing for the seven residents, including four adults and three children.

The garage was determined to be the fire’s area of origin. The cause of the fire is under investigation. The estimated damage to the contents and structure is $50,000. The building was turned over to the residents before fire crews left the scene.

By following a few safety tips, you can protect your family in case of a residential fire.
• Have smoke alarms on every level of your home and in each bedroom, testing them monthly, and replacing them every 10 years.
• Make a home escape plan and discuss the plan with everyone in your home.
• Practice your plan twice a year, day and night.
• Once you are out of the residence, never go back in.

Media Contact
Robert Maitland, Fire Department PIO
650-903-6825 or robert.maitland@mountainview.gov