The Salem Fire & EMS Department responded to a structure fire at 1623 Sunset Ave. this morning at approximately 4:05 a.m. Two people were home at the time of the fire, but both escaped without injury
The first units arrived within nine minutes of receiving the call and found heavy smoke coming from the building. The fire was under control within 18 minutes of the first engine’s arrival. The house did sustain fire and smoke damage, but the fire was contained to the attic.
Approximately 28 personnel from the Salem Fire & EMS Department (Truck 1, Engine 2, Engine 3, Medic 801, Medic 802, Medic 803, Battalion 1 & Fire Medic 1) and the Roanoke Fire & EMS Department (Engine 4, Engine 13 & Battalion 2) responded to the call.
The Salem Fire Marshal’s Office has determined that an overloaded extension cord caused the fire and an estimated $40,000 worth of damage. The Salem Fire & EMS Department reminds everyone to use properly rated extension cords that are compatible with their intended uses.