It's heartbreaking for neighbors to see what's left of 75-year-old Carolyn Larson's home. Officials believe a faulty water heater started the fire that took her life over the weekend.
"She would cook for us. She was always thinking of other people," said David Shaw, Larson's neighbor. "We kind of all stick together right in this part, try to protect each other. I just hate to see her go like that."
The firefighters who rushed in to save her are also struggling with this loss.
"Unfortunately, we were too late," said Lacy Lakeview Fire Chief Patty Faulkner. "It's very, very hard on firefighters and the fire department in general, any of them, that try to do that and fail."
But the Lacy Lakeview Fire Department is looking toward the future. Faulkner said they are trying to prevent more tragedies by walking through people's homes and checking for potential fire hazards.
Lt. Adrian Huff scoped out one homeowner's setup earlier this morning.
He said there are many items that people need to look out for in their home. He said extension cords, candles and hair styling tools can be dangerous if they aren't used properly.
Powerstrips can also spark a fire if the amperage of appliances plugged in them exceeds the amperage it's meant to handle.
"Count your amperage on everything that could possibly go on it so it doesn't overload the outlet," Huff said. "You can check your amperage on the back of the strip."
Huff said they will also check smoke detectors and help your family create an escape plan.
They can also install a smoke detector for you.
"We know a lot of the things that cause problems in a home," Huff said. "We know what to look for."
Larson's neighbors appreciate what the firefighters are doing to keep them safe and they're thinking of inviting them in.
"I don't think they're wasting their time because there are probably some that need to be inspected," said Scott Meaders, Larson's neighbor. "Some of us elderly people, we kind of overlook things."
"It's a good idea," Shaw said. "If it will protect anybody in this neighborhood, it'd be good."
The department is made up of around 18 volunteers. Faulkner said she would like to bring that number up to 25 to even the workload.
Faulkner added that one firefighter destroyed his bunker gear while he was inside the home. They are currently accepting donations to cover the cost of new gear.
If you are interested in volunteering, donating or inviting a firefighter to your home, you can call the Lacy Lakeview Fire Department at 254-799-2479.
You can also check out their Facebook page.
For additional fire safety tips, click here.
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