At 0442, June 9, 2003 Mercer Island Firefighters were dispatched to a reported residential structure fire with secondary explosions, in the 5700 block of West Mercer Way. The initial call was provided by the building occupant and the Mercer Island Dispatcher had the family immediately exit the residence to a safe location.
Additional fire resources were requested, which included one Engine and one Ladder Company from Bellevue. The first arriving Mercer Island fire unit reported a fire outside the structure that was approximately 20' x 5'. The fire was quickly contained by the first arriving unit and the Bellevue Fire units were cancelled prior to their arrival. A total of 7 firefighters were utilized on scene to bring the fire under control in 14 minutes, from the time of call. No firefighter or civilian injuries were reported and no damage to the structure occurred. This fire threatened no other structures.
The homeowner reported that their home was under remodel and that work was done yesterday. This work included staining and painting of exterior surfaces. The contractor was said to store his materials outside the home, inside a small construction tent. The homeowner was awoken early this morning, to the sound of explosions. She looked outside her front door and saw the fire, which initially appeared to include the home.
After a preliminary investigation by the Mercer Island Fire Department it appears that this fire was accidental as a result of a chemical reaction of the stains used as part of the remodel, however the cause is still under investigation.
Preliminary damage appears to be limited to the supplies left on scene by the building contractor. These supplies include a storage tent, stains and paints, and miscellaneous tools and other supplies. The fire investigators have provided no cost estimates of the damage at this time.
