The Fire Investigation Unit of the Toledo Fire & Rescue Department is looking for any tips or information regarding three fire that have occurred in the month of July.
The fires were located at:
-1479 South Ave., on July 3, 2014 at 11:30 p.m.
-711 Magnolia St., on July 6, 2014 at 3:43 a.m.
-723 South Erie St., on July 6, 2014 at 4:23 a.m. This was the second fire at this residence, the first was on April 10, 2014.
Arson is a crime that is not only a threat and danger to our firefighters, but, to our community as well. Arson robs our communities of its valuable assets, lives and property. According to the U.S. Fire Administration and the National Fire Protection Association, there are more than 16,000 intentionally set fires in homes every year, resulting in an estimated 300 deaths, 700 injuries, and $500 million in direct property damage.
Some may think that an arson fire doesn’t affect them if the fire did not damage their property, or occur in their neighborhood. In fact, arson can, and does affect all of us. Arson can devastate a community resulting in the decline of a neighborhood through increased insurance premiums, loss of business revenue, and a decrease in property values.
How can you help? Come forward with any information that you may have regarding any arson fires in your area. Be observant and report unusual activity in your neighborhood. Make sure that you watch any vacant homes that may be near your home.
Finally, ensure that your smoke alarms are working properly and that everyone in your home has an escape plan in the event of a fire.