Cambridge Fire Department is reminding residents to properly discard cigarettes and smoking material after a “potentially devastating” fire on Equestrian Way in Cambridge.
Four stations responded to the blaze, which broke out on Wednesday, at approximately 10:30 p.m.
Deputy Fire Chief Brad Churchill said thanks to quick action by firefighters, the fire was contained to the back deck area of the home and air conditioning unit, averting “a major disaster.”
He said a person passing the home saw the flames and alerted the residents.
“Their quick action ensured that everyone had enough time to evacuate safely, preventing any casualties,” Churchill said.
The fire caused significant damage to the back deck, with damage estimates at about $15,000. The interior of the home was spared from extensive damage, he said, adding the incident serves as a reminded of the financial cost of fires.
Churchill said residents need to properly discard smoking materials in a fire-resistant container away from structures or combustibles.
“Make sure you butt them out and do not let them build up. We have had many more devastating fires in Cambridge due to this,” Churchill said.
The fire department wants to remind homeowners and renters to ensure all smoke alarms and CO alarms are properly installed and in good working order.