Stoneham Basement Fire Extinguished Without Injury

STONEHAM, MA — No injuries were reported after firefighters extinguished a fire that broke out in the basement of the residence at 5 Cherry Ave. Friday morning.

Engines arrived at the home shortly after 9:15 a.m. and knocked down the majority of the flames within 10 minutes. The home’s sole occupant was alerted of the blaze when smoke alarms were activated and was evacuated by fire crews. According to the department, the cause of the fire was believed to be due to an “electrical malfunction.” The Stoneham Fire Department was assisted by its Wakefield peer on scene, and received station coverage from both Reading and Winchester. Stoneham Fire Chief Matthew Grafton said that the working smoke alarms were pivotal to the resident’s safety and quick response from his department.

“We cannot emphasize enough how important it is to check your smoke alarms regularly, as they often play a major role in protecting yourself and your home,” Grafton said in a statement.