NORWAY, Maine — The Maine Fire Marshal’s Office says a structure fire on Everett Drive in Norway was accidentally sparked during an effort to thaw frozen pipes using a combination of heaters and electrical heat tape.
The Norway Fire Department responded to the reported fire at about 3:49 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2025, where crews encountered heavy fire conditions upon arrival. The Fire Marshal’s Office was called in to assist with the investigation.
Investigators determined the frozen pipes were being thawed with heaters and electrical heat tape, which inadvertently caused the fire. The investigation concluded the fire originated from the pipe-thawing process and was ruled accidental.
Officials said the homeowners were returning home when the fire broke out. No injuries were reported. Several mutual aid fire departments assisted Norway crews at the scene.
The Fire Marshal’s Office also issued a warning to residents about the risks of thawing frozen pipes. Officials cautioned against using open flames to thaw pipes and said portable heaters should be kept at least three feet away from combustible materials and never left unattended. The office also urged residents to use electrical heat tape only according to manufacturer instructions and to inspect it regularly for damage, and said anyone unsure how to safely thaw pipes should contact a licensed plumber.
