MIFD responds to two structure fires

Mercer Island Fire Department units were dispatched to a structure fire in the 2900 block of 77th Ave. SE at 11:50 p.m. on July 30.

According to a statement from MIFD, the fire quickly brought under control “utilizing an aggressive fire attack, building search for occupants, ventilation and overhauling of the affected areas.” Support was provided by Eastside Fire and Rescue and the Bellevue Fire Department.

An investigation to determine the cause of the fire is underway, and more information will be posted when it is available.

MIFD also responded to a significant house fire in the 8200 block of Avalon Drive at 1:20 p.m. on Aug. 3. Arriving on scene within minutes, firefighters initiated an aggressive exterior fire attack to knock down the flames and then went inside to search for possible victims and extinguish the rest of the fire.

Firefighters extinguished the fire with several large hoselines and an elevated master stream. The building sustained significant damage caused by fire, heat, water and smoke. The fire was extinguished at approximately 5 p.m., but was monitored through the night.

No one was home at the time of the fire and no injuries were sustained. The fire possibly originated on the exterior of the structure and moved into the attic, however the fire is still under investigation.

A total of 15 fire apparatus with 42 firefighters were used to control this incident. It was a joint effort between Mercer Island Fire, Bellevue Fire, Kirkland Fire and Redmond Fire.

Ten-digit dialing now mandatory

A new area code — 564 — was added to Western Washington, starting July 29. To accommodate this change, new dialing procedures will be necessary to make any call from any landline or cellphone.

All residents will have to dial 10-digit telephone numbers, even to make local calls. Current telephone numbers, and your current area code (i.e. 206 for landlines on Mercer Island), will not change. Calls that are considered local today will remain local after the change.

According to CenturyLink, customers seeking new landline phone service after Aug. 28 may be assigned a phone number with the 564 area code.