Submitted by San Juan County

On Sunday, Jan. 14, Lopez Island Fire and EMS responded to a structure fire in the 500 block of Whiskey Hill Rd. The Fire Department arrived to a working structure fire and confirmed all occupants were accounted for. Fire suppression efforts were made effectively during the cold and freezing conditions.

No injuries to the homeowners, the public, or first responders were reported. Lopez Island Fire and EMS requested the San Juan County Fire Marshal respond to investigate the cause and origin of the fire.

The fire investigation has been ruled accidental in nature involving a portable, electric oil-filled heater.

The San Juan County Fire Marshal would like to remind all homeowners to have working smoke detectors, at least one portable fire extinguisher, and an escape plan in case of a fire.