Duplex fire in West Valley City quickly stopped by firefighters

WEST VALLEY CITY, Utah (ABC4) — A duplex caught on fire in West Valley City and was quickly stopped by firefighters thanks to a neighbor calling 911.

According to Battalion Chief Sean Hoffman with West Valley City Fire Department, the fire most likely began in the carport and moved to the house. Firefighters were able to stop it quickly, but there was “moderate damage” inside of the structure.

Two adults and a dog were inside at the time of the fire, but they were able to get out safely. A neighbor saw the fire as it was starting, and they were able to warn the homeowners and call 911. No injuries were reported.

The cause of the fire is still being investigated, but Hoffman said that it looks like it started in a garbage can in the carport.

Hoffman also said that a fire can move very quickly in a home like this. “With this lightweight construction, it can be pretty fast. It can be on the order of five to ten minutes, and it can be fully engulfed,” he said.

The building is a duplex, and the fire was in one unit. The other unit was not damaged, and it should still be habitable, but firefighters will remain on scene to monitor the situation to make sure it’s safe for the residents.

The unit damaged by the fire is “going to need some remediation” before the residents will be able to return, Hoffman said.

About 20 firefighters responded from the West Valley City Fire Department and South Salt Lake Fire Department.