Fire Response Lakeside Drive

Alexandria Fire Department responded to an apartment building fire that occurred on September 14, 2023, on Lakeside Drive. At approximately 4:53 PM, the Alexandria Fire Department and Rapides Parish Fire District No: 2 were dispatched to The Sanctuary Apartments at 4015 Lakeside Drive in reference to a fully involved building fire. Rapides Parish Fire District No: 2 arrived within two minutes of the initial alarm time. Both fire departments worked together to bring the fire under control within twenty-five minutes. The fire originated in a downstairs apartment and spread throughout. Six apartments were damaged by the smoke and fire. This fire event displaced twenty people. The American Red Cross assisted with temporary housing and other necessities. The cause of the fire was an unattended candle. FYI: From 2015-2019 U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated 7,400 home structure fires that were started by candles per year. These fires caused an annual average of 90 deaths, 670 injuries and $291 million in direct property damage. Safety tip: Keep candles at least 12 inches from anything that can burn.http://ow.ly/XR8DP The Alexandria Fire Department wants to remind everyone to be safe and never leave candles unattended. Also residents are reminded that smoke detectors save lives. Smoke detectors should be installed in all homes and should be tested monthly to ensure proper operation. Smoke detectors are available free through the local fire departments.