HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Local firefighters were called to a structure fire in the 700 block of 15th Circle early Tuesday morning. When units arrived, they found smoke coming from the attic area of a duplex.
The fire was controlled quickly, in about 10 minutes with units were on scene for an hour. Preliminary damage is estimated at $1,500 with damage sustained in the attic and ceiling area.
The cause of the fire appears to be electrical. The residence was occupied by four adults and four children. Red Cross was called to assist the occupant. No one was injured in the fire.
Fire officials say they’ve had fire runs on several electrical fires recently, these numbers are not an increase over years past. Everyone should be reminded of the dangers of a malfunctioning electrical system. Fuses and circuit breakers are put in place to help protect wiring from damage in the event of a malfunction. If you’re experiencing blown fuses or tripped circuit breakers on a regular bases, you should contact an electrician to trouble shoot the problem. Placing larger fuses or breakers can put too large of a load over what wiring was designed to carry.
Residents should be aware that any electrical item that use heat to operate, such as space heaters, coffee pots, curling irons, toasters, etc. can put a lot of strain on an electrical system.
When using space heaters ensure that you are using separate circuits to keep the strain on the wiring to a minimum and prevent unnecessary damage. Also, keep in mind while using space heaters ensure you have a 3 foot radius that is free of combustible materials.
For further information, you can contact the Hutchinson Fire Department at 694-2871.