Apartment Fire Blamed on Improperly Discarded Cigarette

Fire damages were estimated to be $5,000.

Photo of fire scene courtesy: Chris Riffle/Salem Fire

(SALEM, Ore.) - Salem Fire investigators say an apartment fire today at 1529 Salishan Street SE was started by a smoldering cigarette. Fortunately no injuries were reported as a result of the fire that broke out at 11:15 AM today in the 6-plex unit.

Salem Fire Spokesperson Chris Riffle says the first firefighters on scene reported that fire and smoke were seen coming from the exterior siding of the 2-story residence.

"The fire on the deck and exterior siding was quickly extinguished and firefighters used a thermal imaging camera to ensure that the fire had not extended up into the attic and the interior of the residence." Riffle said resident David Parkins was talking on the telephone when he smelled smoke coming from the front door area of the residence.

"As he opened the front door, he could see fire on the exterior deck, and the smoke alarm inside the home activated. He evacuated the residence with his 2-year old son and called 9-1-1."

The fire was determined to have been caused by an improperly discarded cigarette. Fire damages were estimated to be $5,000. No injuries were reported due to the fire.