Crime & Safety

Westport Resident Starts Fire While Thawing Pipes

At about 5:15 p.m. Thursday the Westport Fire Department received a call from a resident reporting a structure fire on Bayberry Lane.

 

The resident initially reported that the fire had possibly gone out, but while Firefighters were driving to Bayberry Lane the homeowner stated that the flames were visible, according to Westport Fire Department Captain Brian Meadows.

First arriving Firefighters found a two-story detached garage with an apartment above. Smoke was seen coming from a wall on the first floor, Meadows said.

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“Firefighters used hand tools to open up the wall and extinguish the fire. Additional companies checked for any fire extension on the floor above,” Meadows said.

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The occupant stated that prior to the fire he was thawing pipes, but the cause of the fire is under investigation by the Westport Fire Marshal’s office.

“He exited the garage and when he returned he saw smoke coming from the wall and called 911,” Meadows said, adding that residents are advised to not use a direct heat source such as open flame or torch when thawing pipes.

Four engines, one truck company and the Shift Commander were dispatched to the scene. An Engine from Fairfield Fire Department covered Westport Fire Headquarters for any additional calls.

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