Dumpster Fires in the Downtown Area

Albany Fire investigators are encouraging everyone to keep an eye out as downtown dumpster fire keep happening Photo By: Tim King

(ALBANY) - Albany`s Fire Department has responded to a series of dumpster fires in the downtown area that began around the first of the year. Fire spokesperson Wanda Omdahl says the latest fire happened April 30th at Emma Downtown, 422 SW 1st St. The occupant, who lives above this establishment, was awakened by the smell of smoke and noticed that the dumpster in the alleyway was smoldering.

If this dumpster had ignited, the building could have been damaged with a significant loss to its owner and occupants. Needless to say, the fire could have potentially led to grave injury and death.

Omdahl says it is important to stay alert; you should also pay attention to your property and also keep an eye out for others. To protect your home or business, the Albany Fire Department urges you to be sure that all dumpsters are a safe distance from your building. Make sure no burnable material is lying around or nearby; it doesn`t take much for a fire to travel. Residents can also check with their local disposal company for the availability of locked dumpsters.

And finally, any questionable behavior or activity should be immediately reported by calling 9-1-1.