Fire Department Press Release – 20 Blossom Dr 12-29-2025

San Rafael Fire Department - PRESS RELEASE

Abraham Roman, Fire Chief

Alert Neighbor Likely Saves Neighbor's House

• Incident Commander: Anthony Alviso, Battalion
• Date of Incident: Monday, December 29,
• Location of Incident: 20 Blossom San Rafael, CA.
• Time of Dispatch: 2:29 m.
• Duration of Incident: 2 hours 50
• Type of Incident: Structure
• Occupancy Type: Single-family dwelling with attached
• Fire Cause: Under investigation.
• Damage Estimate: Not determined at this time
• Injuries: One treated and released at the scene.

While walking his dog, an alert neighbor heard the sound of multiple smoke detectors activating inside a home at 20 Blossom Drive and went to the front door to investigate. The residents were away for the holidays and did not answer when he knocked. Recognizing the urgency, the neighbor quickly contacted the homeowner by text message, who was able to provide the front door access code.

Upon opening the door, the neighbor observed flames near a gas fireplace in the living room and smoke throughout the residence. He immediately called 9-1-1 to report the emergency and, while firefighters were responding, turned off the natural gas supply at the meter after suspecting the gas fireplace may have been involved.

Firefighters arrived on scene and, after an extensive search, located a smoldering fire beneath the floor in the crawlspace below the living room. Crews carefully opened the floor near the fireplace to access the fire and worked methodically to fully extinguish it while minimizing damage to the home.

Several factors contributed to the successful outcome and prevented this incident from resulting in the loss of the home. Although the residence was unoccupied, properly installed smoke detectors activated early and were loud enough to alert someone outside. The neighbor took action to investigate, had the homeowner's contact information, and was able to quickly coordinate access to the home. The homeowner's ability to provide electronic entry further reduced delays, allowing the fire to be controlled before it could spread. Damage was confined to a small area, and the home can be reoccupied.

This incident highlights the importance of working smoke detectors in every home. Smoke alarms provide early warning, even when a home is unoccupied, and in this case, were loud enough to alert a passerby to a dangerous situation. Residents are encouraged to test smoke alarms regularly, replace batteries as needed, and ensure alarms are installed on all floors, in each sleeping room, and in hallways leading to sleeping rooms.

Additionally, launching or joining a neighborhood Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) can be an effective way to strengthen communication between neighbors and improve readiness for emergencies. CERT programs provide basic training in disaster response, fire safety, and medical aid, empowering residents to take safe, appropriate action until professional responders arrive. Early detection, preparedness, and quick action save lives and property! Here is information on upcoming CERT training in San Rafael:

Contact: Deputy Fire Chief Robert Sinnott [email protected] 415-485-5067 office 415-261-7333 cell

Press Release_20 Blossom Dr_12-29-2025