Image: Hope Fire Department / A charred wooden post is shown after an unattended smoker was left too closely to a combustible. The Hope Fire Department says an unattended smoker at a residence led to a 9-1-1 call about smoke seen from the rear of a home last week and a quick response from local firefighters.

By Mike Vanden Bosch

Unattended smoker

Unattended smoker prompts 9-1-1 call, rapid response from Hope firefighters

Aug 2, 2024 | 12:42 PM

HOPE — The Hope Fire Department says an unattended smoker at a residence led to a 9-1-1 call about smoke seen from the rear of a home last week and a quick response from local firefighters.

According to a social media post from the department, Hope firefighters say a smoker was left alone for an unspecified time in close proximity to a combustible material. Hope Fire says further damage was averted in this case.

“Fortunately further damage was averted in this case that serves as a reminder to never leave bbq’s or smokers unattended,” Hope Fire said, adding that grills and smokers should be placed well away from the home, deck railings and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.

Hope Fire provided a picture of what appears to be a stained wooden post that was charred by flames.