Three people and two dogs escaped without injury from an early-morning house fire Friday in West Paris, while one cat died in the blaze, according to the Maine State Fire Marshal’s Office.
The West Paris Fire Department responded at approximately 3:41 a.m. on Friday, Aug. 28, to a 911 call reporting a structure fire at 31 Smith Street.
All three occupants of the residence were able to get out safely along with two dogs before the fire overtook the home. One cat was killed.
At the request of the West Paris fire chief, investigators with the Maine State Fire Marshal’s Office responded to determine where the fire started and what caused it.
Following interviews and an examination of the scene, investigators determined the fire originated in the basement and was accidental.
According to investigators, the blaze was caused by the improper disposal of staining materials, including rags that had been used for wood finishing.
Rags containing certain wood stains and finishing products can generate heat as they dry, creating a fire risk when they are improperly stored or discarded.
The home was equipped with working smoke alarms, which activated during the fire and provided the occupants with an early warning.
Fire investigators credited those alarms with helping the residents escape safely before anyone was injured.
The residence sustained extensive damage as a result of the fire.
The American Red Cross is assisting the displaced family with their immediate needs.
Linseed oil soaked rags are the worst IMO.