On February 3, 2025, at 11:15 a.m., the San Bernardino County Fire Protection District responded to a residential structure fire located on the 1300 block of N. Valencia Avenue in the City of San Bernardino. The initial engine arrived in six minutes and reported a single story residence, well involved with smoke and fire. Shortly after arrival, residents informed fire crews that their daughter, who has access and functional needs, was trapped inside the home.
In response to the life-threatening update, firefighters shifted their strategy from fire suppression to search and rescue. A team was able to locate the child in a bedroom and safely passed her through a window to fellow firefighters outside. She was subsequently taken to awaiting firefighter/paramedics and transported to a local hospital, where she was reported to be in serious but stable condition. Additionally, a family dog was successfully rescued from the premises.
Seven engines, one truck company, one medic squad, and three chief officers, totaling 30 personnel deployed to the scene.
This incident underscores the effectiveness of rigorous training, teamwork, and the enhanced staffing levels implemented in the City of San Bernardino. Last year, staffing levels were increased to four personnel on all trucks, and an additional medic squad was added. These enhancements were crucial during this response, as the captain from the assigned truck was able to perform the rescue and hand off the child to the medic squad, who provided immediate emergency medical care.
The San Bernardino County Fire Protection District would like to remind residents to keep bedroom doors closed, especially when someone is sleeping inside. The closed bedroom door helped prevent smoke and flames from causing major injuries, providing enough time for emergency crews to locate the child without any significant burns or airway injuries.
Date/Time: Monday, February 3, 2025 11:15am
Location: 1300 block of N. Valencia Avenue, San Bernardino
Incident: Residential Structure Fire With Rescue
Contact: Christopher Prater, Public Information Officer (714)319-7316