On November 7, 2023 at approximately 1:19 a.m., the Escondido Police and Fire Communication Center received reports of a residential structure fire located at 1666 East Lincoln Ave. EPD arrived on scene quickly, confirmed a fully involved garage fire, and a working fire upgrade was added for additional resources. The first arriving engine reported a well involved, working structure fire located in the garage and extending into the second floor above, as well as the attic space.

Aggressive action by the firefighters contained and controlled the main body of the fire activity in about 30 min from time of dispatch. However, due to high fuel loading in the garage and second floor above, significant personnel and time was required to extinguish the fire contained in the debris.

In all, twenty-four firefighters and one fire prevention specialist responded to the fire. EPD conducted traffic control and SDGE was dispatched to address utilities. There was one minor injury to a resident who refused transport after medical assessment, and no injuries to firefighters. The Red Cross responded to assist one displaced family with short term housing, and a $250 “SAVE” gift card was provided to the family on behalf of the California Fire Foundation. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Safety Message: Lithium batteries are becoming common in households and have many uses. These batteries require safety considerations far beyond the typical dry cell batteries most households are used to. Please see the following National Fire Protection Association link for safe practices regarding lithium batteries in the house.

https://www.nfpa.org/downloadable-resources/safety-tip-sheets/lithium-ion-battery-safety-for-consumers-tip-sheet?l=0