FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Friday, Jan. 21, 2005

CONTACT: Al Christie, State Fire Marshal, (605) 773-3562

Fire Marshal Announces Probable Cause of Wakonda House Fire

PIERRE, S.D. – The South Dakota Fire Marshal announced today that investigators have determined the probable cause of the Wakonda house fire that claimed the lives of four children, ages three, six, 11 and 17 the morning of Friday, Jan. 7, 2005.

“At this point, all evidence indicates an accidental fire that ignited the sofa and surrounding combustibles in the living room,” said state Fire Marshal Al Christie. “In the debris of the fire at the point of origin, we found a butane long neck lighter, which we believe was the ignition source.”

The South Dakota Fire Marshals Office is encouraging families around South Dakota to practice fire safety and prevention at all times.

Individuals should observe these important fire prevention practices:

• Develop and practice home escape plans
• Install smoke detectors according to factory recommended directions
• Keep lighters and matches out of the reach of small children
• Practice safe habits and always be aware of fire dangers and potential hazards

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