At 2:30 am Wednesday, an overloaded electrical circuit caused a house fire at 6371 SW Childs Road. Firefighters from Lake Oswego and Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue found the attic of this one story home engulfed in flames. Soon after arrival, flames were coming through the roof. Firefighters acted quickly and were able to extinguish the fire in about 30 minutes.
Investigators are saying too many space heaters plugged in overloaded the circuit and caused this fire. The occupants of the house noticed that the lights were not working just before 2:30 AM. When they went to investigate they started smelling smoke. When the owner went to check the attic he found flames and tried to extinguish the fire with an extinguisher. Due to the smoke he was unable to put the fire out and had to get out of the house. All 5 occupants, Sandy Schroeder, Janet Alexander, 3 relatives and a family dog escaped without injuries. The Red Cross is assisting the family at this time. The owners did not have insurance and it most likely will be a while before repairs are made so they can move back in.
Firefighter initially had a problem with one fire hydrant that was not working. It is unsure if the hydrant was turned off, or if it was frozen. Another hydrant nearby was used quickly to establish a good water supply.
Damages to the house and contents are estimated about $60,000.