$50K Damage Caused By Microwave Fire in Forest Hill Condo

BEL AIR, MD — Neighbors who heard a smoke alarm in a 12-unit condominium Wednesday evening helped the woman in the unit escape the heavy smoke, according to authorities. She was evaluated for injuries.

The fire was contained to a microwave in Unit H of the building at 201 Kimary Court in Forest Hill, according to the state fire marshal's office. A fire sprinkler activated and contained the fire to Unit H with minimal fire damage, while water damage affected that unit and the unit directly below it.

Damage was estimated at $25,000 to the condo building and $25,000 to residents' belongings, authorities said.

The Bel Air Volunteer Fire Company responded to the scene and had the fire out in 2 minutes.

Acting State Fire Marshal Jason M. Mowbray said, “Residential fire sprinklers are proven to save lives, prevent injuries, and protect property and valuables. This is yet another example of how the presence of an automatic fire sprinkler system protected occupants and prevented substantial fire damage to residential property.”