Two days before Christmas, the smoke from an early afternoon house fire near the base of Mount Peak could be seen across the Plateau.

Firefighters from Enumclaw-King County Fire District No. 28 were dispatched to a possible fire at 27626 S.E. 464th St. at 12:42 p.m. Dec. 23.

According to reports, fire units arrived on-scene to a fully-involved, two-story, wood-frame residential structure with flame and smoke showing on both levels.

Fire personnel immediately began extinguishing efforts after making sure any and all occupants were accounted. According to fire department reports, the sole occupant of the residence had attempted to extinguish the fire with a garden hose prior to the arrival of fire apparatus. The occupant sustained burn injuries to his face and hands and was treated by King County Medic One Paramedics and airlifted to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle.

His condition is unknown at this time.

The Enumclaw Fire Department was assisted by personnel and apparatus from King County Fire District No. 44, Buckley Fire Department, East Pierce Fire District and King County Medic One.

Fire personnel remained on-scene until 5:59 p.m.

"It was difficult to fight because of the way the house was constructed," Enumclaw Fire Chief Joe Clow said.

King County Fire Investigations were on-scene and the fire remains under investigation with a the cause undetermined at this time.

Although the cause remains unknown, Clow said this time of year often raises the potential for home fires.

"The frequency of fires at the beginning of the cold season are common," Clow said, adding the holiday season also increases the risk for home fires. Candles, he said, are a top culprit.

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