A Story of Quick Thinking and Courage: Building Inspectors Act Fast to Protect Neighbors
What began as a routine day of inspections quickly turned into a moment of decisive action for Building Inspectors Blake Krueger and DJ Stephan.
On Monday, May 11 As they were driving south on 20 St, a thick cloud of black smoke rising above a nearby neighborhood caught Blake’s eye. Without hesitation, DJ accelerated toward the source. The closer they got, the more obvious it became. Flames were pouring from the back of a home, and no first responders had arrived yet.
They were the first on scene.
Blake immediately called 911 while DJ pulled up in front of the burning twin home. both were moving, no discussion needed. Blake ran south to alert the neighboring homeowner, whose own property had already begun to burn. She was unaware of the danger, and despite initial reluctance, Blake was able to convince her to leave her home.
At the same time, DJ raced to the front door of the burning home. When the locked door wouldn’t open, he rang the doorbell and pounded repeatedly, checking to see if anyone was inside. Moments later, the homeowner’s son burst out the door with his dog and a few belongings, shaken and panicked. DJ and Blake quickly helped calm him, confirming he was the only person inside.
Another neighbor, noticing the smoke, ran over to help. Blake stayed with the resident while DJ sprinted to the north unit of the twin home, where he found another confused homeowner just opening her door. He guided her safely to the boulevard.
Within minutes, police arrived, followed by fire crews who took control of the scene. But in those critical early moments, the coordinated, instinctive response from Blake and DJ had ensured that everyone, including pets, were safely evacuated.
Reflecting on the experience, both inspectors say the speed and intensity of the fire stands out the most. They shared how quickly a home can become overwhelmed by heat and smoke, emphasizing the importance of getting out immediately and hope residents take away just how important it is to have an emergency plan, working smoke alarms, and an understanding of how to operate all windows and doors.
Looking back, both men express a similar sentiment: gratitude. Gratitude that they saw the smoke when they did. Gratitude that they were close enough to act. Gratitude that everyone made it out safely.
“I’m glad we were able to help alert everyone,” DJ said. “Even if we provided comfort for just a few seconds in a chaotic moment, that matters.”
Blake echoed the feeling: “We were just thankful to be in the right place at the right time and being able to make that call, and able to help.”
Their quick thinking and steady teamwork made all the difference that day. A powerful reminder of the everyday heroes who often don’t see themselves that way at all.