One person was found dead following a house fire that took place south of Cerrillos on November 24th.
Firefighters in Santa Fe County were called to the fire on Gold Mine Road at around 6 PM. When crews arrived, the fire was fully ablaze creating a “fully involved” atmosphere. Local departments including the Turquoise Trail and Madrid fire departments were also dispatched to the scene and helped extinguish the large blaze.
According to fire officials the fire was fully put out at 10 PM on Friday and one person was discovered dead inside the home. The victim has not yet been identified and the State Fire Marshal’s office is investigating the death and fire.
“This dangerous Cerrillo house fire has left the community in great shock and distress as the life of one resident was taken far too soon and unexpectedly,” said Brian Colón, leading fire litigation attorney and Managing Partner at Singleton Schreiber’s New Mexico offices. “No one should ever face such a tragic loss of life. The community is grateful for the hard work of the dispatched fire departments and volunteers that helped extinguish the fire.”
If you or someone you love has been involved in a fire accident, contact the Santa Fe County fire attorneys at Singleton Schreiber by calling (505) 587-3473 or via email at info@singletonschreiber.com.
Santa Fe County House Fires
Santa Fe County, known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and vibrant community, is currently facing a concerning trend – an increase in house fires. These incidents not only pose a threat to property but also jeopardize the safety and well-being of residents.
Over the past several months, Santa Fe County has experienced a notable uptick in house fires, leaving many residents worried and community leaders searching for solutions. The reasons behind this surge are multifaceted, ranging from electrical issues to human error, and each incident underscores the need for increased awareness and preventive measures.
Potential Causes:
- Electrical Failures: Aging infrastructure, faulty wiring, and outdated electrical systems can contribute to electrical fires. Residents are urged to have their electrical systems inspected regularly by certified professionals to identify and rectify potential hazards.
- Cooking Accidents: Unattended stovetops, grease fires, and faulty kitchen appliances are common causes of house fires. Simple precautions, such as staying in the kitchen while cooking and keeping flammable materials away from heat sources, can significantly reduce the risk.
- Heating Systems: As winter approaches, the use of heating systems increases. Malfunctioning furnaces, space heaters, or fireplaces can lead to devastating fires. Regular maintenance checks and proper usage guidelines are essential in preventing such incidents.
Local authorities, along with fire departments and community organizations, are actively working to address the issue. Increased public awareness campaigns, educational programs, and outreach initiatives aim to inform residents about fire safety protocols. Additionally, fire drills and emergency response training are being organized to ensure that residents are well-prepared in the event of a fire.
Safety Measures:
- Install Smoke Alarms: Ensure that smoke alarms are installed on every floor of your home and in key areas like bedrooms. Regularly test the alarms and replace batteries to guarantee they are in working order.
- Create an Evacuation Plan: Develop a comprehensive evacuation plan that includes escape routes, meeting points, and emergency contacts. Practice this plan with your family regularly to ensure everyone knows what to do in the event of a fire.
- Monitor Electrical Systems: Schedule routine inspections of your home’s electrical systems, and promptly address any issues identified. Avoid overloading outlets and use surge protectors to safeguard electronic devices.
The recent surge in house fires in Santa Fe County calls for collective action and heightened awareness within the community. By understanding the potential causes of fires and implementing safety measures, residents can contribute to creating a safer living environment. Through collaboration between local authorities, fire departments, and the community, it is possible to reverse this alarming trend and ensure the well-being of Santa Fe County residents.
“My thoughts are with the family of the victim as they navigate this sudden and untimely loss of a loved one,” added Mr. Colón. “House fires can be difficult cases to manage and understand as details may be complex. My recommendation is that the family or anyone involved in the fire reaches out to an experienced fire attorney that can assist in the matter.”
If you or someone you love has been involved in a fire accident, contact the Santa Fe County fire attorneys at Singleton Schreiber by calling (505) 587-3473 or via email at info@singletonschreiber.com.
