2 Overnight Fires Prompt Warning From West Hartford FD

WEST HARTFORD, CT — Local firefighters had a busy night Monday night into Tuesday morning, rushing to two fires at West Hartford residences.

No injuries were reported in either blaze, with the West Hartford Fire Department reminding residents that cold winter weather can lead to increased fire risks.

According to the WHFD, at approximately 3:08 a.m. Tuesday, the West Hartford Emergency Response Center and dispatch received a 911 call reporting a fire on the exterior side of a residence at 26 Rockledge Drive.

"Crews arrived within minutes to find active fire conditions on the side of the home," wrote the WHFD in a release Tuesday morning.

Fire officials said the homeowner was able to extinguish the majority of the blaze using a fire extinguisher prior to the arrival of fire department units.

All three occupants had safely exited the residence, the WHFD said.

"West Hartford Fire Department personnel fully extinguished the remaining fire, conducted a thorough search of the residence to ensure there was no fire extension, ventilated smoke from the home, and utilized a four-gas meter to confirm safe air quality levels," wrote the WHFD.

The fire was declared under control at 3:21 a.m., and no injuries were reported.

"The occupants will be permitted to reoccupy the residence once an electrician has inspected the electrical system and confirmed it is safe," the WHFD said.

The West Hartford Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating the origin and cause of the fire. At this time, the fire does not appear to be suspicious.

"The West Hartford Fire Department would like to thank the ERC, West Hartford Police Department, and Public Works for their assistance at the scene," wrote the WHFD.

This incident was the second fire response of the night for the WHFD.

The first incident was a chimney fire at 64 Lexington Drive.

Firefighters said that the fire was contained to the chimney with no extension into the residence, and the occupants were able to safely remain in their home.

Fire officials said the onset of cold weather this time of year can lead to increased fire risk, something they urged residents to be aware of.

"As colder weather approaches, the West Hartford Fire Department reminds residents to ensure smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms are installed and functioning properly," wrote the WHFD.

"Residents who use fireplaces or wood-burning stoves are also encouraged to have their chimneys and heating appliances inspected and cleaned annually to help prevent fires."