Fire crews responded around 1:20 p.m. Aug. 17 to a possible residential fire in the 600 block of Meadowood Court near F 1/2 Road. A fire alarm was sounding and smoke was reported inside the two-story home, but no flames were seen. Residents had evacuated before crews arrived.
Crews inspected the residence, roof and attic, including a potentially overheated swamp cooler. The attic was cleared, and no active fire was reported. No injuries were mentioned in the scanner traffic. Crews are on scene investigating.
Details are based on live scanner traffic and may change as official information is released.
From the Grand Junction Fire Department:
Swamp coolers are a summertime staple in Western Colorado, and while fires involving them are uncommon, electrical or mechanical problems can create a fire risk—especially when a unit is older or hasn’t been properly maintained.
A little preventive maintenance can go a long way. Before and throughout the cooling season:
- Have the motor, pump, wiring, belts, and electrical connections checked
- Replace worn or dried-out cooling pads as needed
- Keep the unit clean and free of debris
- Pay attention to tripped breakers, unusual noises, burning smells, or overheating
If your swamp cooler starts smelling like it’s burning, smoking, or repeatedly tripping a breaker, turn it off and have it inspected before using it again.
Regular maintenance doesn’t just help your swamp cooler run more efficiently—it can help you catch potential problems before they become dangerous.
Photo by Grand Junction Fire Department