Bend, Ore. – Bend Fire Department was called to a commercial structure fire early this morning after a person noticed smoke coming from the roof of the building. The suite is occupied by Eagle Mountain Fellowship.
An attic firewall prevented the fire from spreading past the church. Crews were able to quickly stop the fire from spreading within the church. Crews worked for another couple hours ensuring the fire was completely out, complicated by the high ceilings and a large attic space.
The fire cause was linked to an extension cord being pinched by equipment in a sound room off the stage in the main sanctuary. The fire spread through the wall into the storage room being the stage and spread from there into the attic.
Bend Fire Department wants to remind businesses that Oregon Fire Code only allows extension cords to be used for temporary wiring (less than 90 days in any 12 month period). Residents are suggested to follow the same rules as commercial occupancies when it comes to extension cords.
“The best way to prevent these types of fires is to use surge suppressing power taps, surge protectors for short. These are the types you find most computers plugged into in the work place. These are designed for longer prior use and have their own circuit built right inside.” – Bend Fire Department news release.
These can be plugged directly into an outlet and appliances, lights and equipment plugged into the surge protector. Be sure to match up the amperage needed for the appliances and equipment to the right level of surge protector.
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