Sedro-Woolley, Washington – One Person Dead, One Critically Injured in Mobile Home Fire

Sedro-Woolley, Washington (December 25, 2019) – One person died and another was critically injured in a fire that broke out in a mobile home on Wicker Road on early Wednesday morning. A man in his 70s was found dead inside, and the Medical Examiner’s Office is yet to identify the victim and confirm the cause of his death. A woman in her 60s was also found inside the home and she was taken to Skagit Valley Hospital, and transferred to Harborview Medical Center in critical condition.

Crews from Skagit County Fire responded to the scene before 2 a.m. The house was reported to be fully involved by the time firefighters arrived. The cause of the fire is yet to be determined.

About Fire

We offer our sympathies and compassion for the friends and loves ones of the victim. Unfortunately this is not the only time a fire has resulted in tragedy. There are many dangers present in fire, and studies have pointed to the structure of the mobile home as some of the most dangerous in a fire. Mobile homes are often considered manufactured housing, which is defined as any home constructed in a manufacturing plant and transport-able in one or two sections. Their economical state and availability makes them attractive to many buyers across America. In the state of Washington, mobile homes compose around 7.5% of housing, which is a fairly small number. However, the U.S. Fire Administration has stated that the fatality rate in mobile homes are doubled compared to regular, on-site houses.

The high level of danger in a mobile home fire comes from its structure. The frames in mobile homes are composed of a light steel structure, which can easily bend in high heat. In addition, floors are made of wood, and in a fire, both the frame and wood can easily collapse and trap occupants or firefighters. Coupled with the small spaces in mobile homes, a fire in this structure comes with great risk. Homeowners are advised to consider fire safety at all times, and firefighters are instructed to be wary of tackling a mobile home fire. Beyond the damage and loss inflicted on property, the threat of injuries and death should make everyone living in these homes to follow safety regulations.

[cta]