WEST NEWBURY — The West Newbury Fire Department and mutual aid partners extinguished a residential garage fire Sunday night.
The West Newbury Public Safety Dispatch Center received a 911 call at 6:35 p.m., reporting a fire at a home on Middle Street. The fire started in the attic space above an attached garage. Firefighters were aggressive and able to put water on the fire quickly, preventing it from spreading to the home. The fire was under control by 7 p.m., and firefighters remained on scene for another hour overhauling and investigating the cause of the fire.
All occupants and pets were able to evacuate, and there were no injuries.
Mutual aid was provided by Groveland, Newburyport, Georgetown and Atlantic Ambulance. Newbury Fire covered the town during the incident. West Newbury and Groveland police assisted with road closures.
Building and electrical inspectors responded to the scene, as did the West Newbury Water Department and the Department of Public Works.
After an investigation, it was determined that the fire was caused by careless disposal of smoking materials. The West Newbury Fire Department would like to use this incident to remind residents of these important safety tips:
- Now that the conditions are becoming dry, never toss burnt materials or ashes into bushes, mulch or grassy areas that can easily catch fire.
- If smoking inside, be mindful of combustible surfaces and spaces when disposing of smoking materials.
- Massachusetts General Laws C. 148, S. 59., and West Newbury Bylaws specify that every building in the state must have clearly visible address numbers posted. Seconds count, and in this case public safety was able to locate this home quickly because numbers were visible. Now is a good time to check your home.
The department thanks West Newbury residents Leisa Mingo and Richard Baker for providing water and support to first responders.
