HOLLAND, MI (WHTC) – A basement fire has left a Holland family temporarily displaced, but no one was injured in the fire at 235 East 14th Street.
Holland Department of Public Safety Fire (HDPS) and Police units were dispatched at 6:50 p.m. Wednesday evening after reports of light smoke coming from the basement. Upon arrival approximately five minutes later, crews immediately entered the structure and found that the source of the smoke was a fire located in the west wall of the 2 story wood frame home.
The fire was quickly contained and extinguished minimizing fire and water damage. All occupants were found to have evacuated the residence prior to arrival. Smoke alarms were present and activating upon arrival of the responding units.
An initial investigation of the cause of the fire indicates that the fire is accidental and most likely a result of a torch being used for modification of plumbing on the exterior of the structure. Damage is minimal and estimated to be less that $20,000, however residents of the home will be temporarily displaced. It is expected that the they should be able to return to their home after some initial repairs are made.
The department encourages all residents to test their alarms on a monthly basis and replace batteries where indicated at least twice a year.
The department was assisted tonight by the HDPS Victim’s Services Unit, the American Red Cross and American Medical Response.
