Wolf Lodge Inn fire caused by grease accumulation
Thursday September 12, 2024Contact: Julie Robinson, 208-334-4312
julie.robinson@doi.idaho.gov
COEUR D’ALENE, ID (September 12, 2024) – The Idaho State Fire Marshal’s Office has completed its investigation into the cause of the fire that destroyed the Wolf Lodge Inn near Coeur d’Alene on Monday, September 2, 2024.
The fire was reported to 911 by a passerby at 11:58 am, who happened to be an Idaho Deputy Fire Marshal. The deputy discovered staff on the roof of the building attempting to extinguish the fire with a garden hose. Fortunately, the deputy and the employees immediately began evacuating the inn, which was accomplished prior to the arrival of fire units. Their quick action resulted in saving patrons’ lives.
Investigators from the State Fire Marshal’s Office, Kootenai County Fire & Rescue, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) arrived the following day to investigate. Thanks to the observations made by the deputy and other interviews, an area of interest was quickly identified. It was determined that a breach in the flue pipe above the kitchen’s wood-fired grill allowed an accumulation of grease to form on the flue piping and inside the attic. This build-up of grease ignited and spread to the remainder of the building. The fire was classified as accidental.
The State Fire Marshal encourages all similar businesses to provide proper maintenance for all cooking equipment by a reputable contractor. The level of use should determine the frequency of system cleaning, as required by the fire code. If business owners have questions, they are urged to contact their local fire department or the State Fire Marshal’s Office.
###
About the Department of Insurance
The Idaho Department of Insurance has been regulating the business of insurance in Idaho since 1901. The mission of the Department is to serve and protect Idahoans by equitably, effectively and efficiently administering the Idaho Insurance Code and the International Fire Code. For more information, please visit us at doi.idaho.gov or email us at consumeraffairs@doi.idaho.gov.
About the State Fire Marshal’s Office
The State Fire Marshal’s Office participates in and coordinates an integrated statewide system designed to protect human life from fire and explosions through fire prevention, investigation and public education activities. The program involves fire prevention activities, fire/arson investigation, code enforcement and the operation of the National Fire Incident Reporting System. The State Fire Marshal’s Office provides assistance to local fire agencies throughout the state.