Quick action by the Kamiah Fire EMS averted a potential catastrophe at the local Teen Center on Main Street this past Saturday at approximately 6 p.m. Upon receiving the call, Emergency Engine 22 (E22) rushed to the scene, where they encountered heavy black smoke billowing from a chimney.
Upon arrival, E22 immediately dispatched units to various parts of the building, including the roof and basement. A diesel furnace fire was discovered in the basement. Firefighters swiftly extinguished the blaze, while other crews cleared the smoke and checked for any signs of fire extension.
According to Chief Billy Monahan, had it not been for the timely discovery of the fire by Teen Center employees during business hours, the situation could have escalated significantly, particularly if the fire had gone unnoticed until the late hours of the night.