Chattanooga firefighters respond to two kitchen fires in 24 hours

Chattanooga firefighters respond to a fire at 527 Sequoia Drive.
Chattanooga firefighters respond to a fire at 527 Sequoia Drive.

Chattanooga firefighters responded to two kitchen fires over the weekend.

The first one occurred Saturday morning at 3116 15th Ave., according to a news release. Capt. Joey Smith with Engine 5 said the firefighters were able to contain the fire to the kitchen area. The lone occupant got out of the house safely. The dollar loss was estimated at $15,000. The cause of the fire was ruled accidental, from food being left unattended on the stove.

The second took place shortly after 3 a.m. in a duplex at 527 Sequoia Drive. Capt. Emily Smith said the fire was caused by two boys -- ages 13 and 14 -- who were home alone and cooking. The fire started in the kitchen and spread to other rooms.

Smith said the boys got out of the apartment and also alerted the family living on the other side to get out as well.

One side of the duplex had substantial fire damage; the other smoke damage. The loss was estimated at $50,000.

Volunteers with the American Red Cross of Southeast Tennessee were requested to respond to the scene to provide assistance to the two families.

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