10 people and 5 animals homeless after fire in Fountain four-family house; cause still under investigation

FOUNTAIN, Colorado (KKTV) – Ten residents and five pets were left homeless when a fire broke out at an apartment complex in Fountain early Tuesday morning.

Just before 6:40 a.m., firefighters were called to a four-family home on Alegre Circle after smoke was reported inside the building. The area is located between Highway 85/87 to the east and Southmoor Drive to the west.

Officials on the scene told 11 News that the fire was contained to a utility room and that the building itself did not sustain fire damage. However, the building did sustain some smoke damage and water and utility lines had to be shut off, forcing the temporary relocation of the 10 residents.

“All four apartments had a lot of smoke, but no fire reached the apartments,” said Jared Cass, Fountain Fire Chief.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation, but Cass said that as the heat increases in the house at this time of year, so does the risk of fire.

“Sometimes we see an increase in fires when people use their stoves for the first time,” Cass told 11 News.

He advised residents to have their heating systems checked before switching them on for the first time during the cold season.

“Just make sure it’s working safely – there’s no fire risk and no carbon monoxide risk either, as your furnace will need to be serviced. It’s also important to change the furnace filter at least once a month. Be sure to follow the furnace manufacturer’s recommendations, as many of these fires can be caused by clogged filters that prevent the furnace from getting the air it needs.”

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