Carolyn Sackariason/Daily Press The Santa Monica Fire Department was called to The Santa Monica Pier at 6 p.m. Tuesday when a small fire broke out under the pier and burned several boards. Fire officials believe a discarded cigarette was the cause of the fire, which they said is a common occurrence on the pier.The smoke activated the pier’s sprinkler system, which is located beneath the pier and sprays the boards from underneath. There was only minor damage caused and a few boards will have to be replaced, fire officials said. A total of three fire engines were dispatched to the scene, where 21 SMFD fire fighters easily extinguished the small blaze.
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on May 1, 2002. Read the original PDF.