With cold temperatures in the forecast, firefighters across Puget Sound are reminding families to be extra careful when trying to stay warm.
Graciela Ramirez died in a fire early Christmas morning in Skagit County. Fire officials said her death was avoidable. The fire smoldered inside Ramirez’ hotel room for nearly an hour, according to firefighters. Ramirez never made it out.
“A $15 smoke alarm would have saved this person’s life,” said Anacortes Fire Department Chief Richard Curtis.
Ramirez, 49, didn’t survive. The Skagit County Coroner’s Office ruled her death was an accident, saying she died from smoke inhalation.