DENVER (KDVR) — Vacant buildings are not only eyesores , but the Denver Fire Department is warning that they can also be dangerous.
The agency said that when the temperature drops, people out in the elements will seek shelter trying to stay warm. Due to the fire risk, firefighters are asking homeowners to keep a close eye on the dozens of properties that have been left empty.
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According to the city and county of Denver’s Neglected and Derelict Building List, there are 207 empty buildings. Denver Fire Department told FOX31 it’s a safety hazard.
“It was called in by a neighbor or someone living close to the vacant property,” said Captain Luis Cedillo with Denver Fire. He is referring to a vacant building fire where crews had to put out the blaze on Kalamath Street. Cedillo said it started from squatters starting a fire inside.
“Even though they are protected from the rain or from the snow they are still going to be cold inside,” said Cedillo. “So, typically they will light up a fire. An open flame inside the structure so that they can stay warm.”