According to a Kent Fire Department press release, at 3:53 a.m. firefighters from Kent and South King Fire and Rescue were dispatched to a residential fire on the 23800 Block of 38th Ave South.

The dispatcher reported smoke and flames were visible from a bedroom window. Crews on their arrival confirmed fire had “popped” a bedroom window and was extending to the exterior of the home.

One of the family members was awakened by the noise and was able to alert her brother of the danger. Both were able to escape to safety with no injuries. Red Cross is assisting the family to meet there immediate needs for shelter, food and clothing.

The damage estimate for the home is approximately $250,000. There was significant flame damage to the bedroom where the fire started and to the immediately adjacent portions of the house. Smoke damage was substantial and spread throughout the entire home.

King County Fire Investigators determined that the cause of the fire was combustibles to close to a baseboard heater.

Unfortunately combustibles being too close to baseboard heaters and space heaters are a far to frequent occurrence. Kent fire suggests flammable material be kept a minimum of 18 inches from the heat source.