Recent Somerville Fires Caused By Stray Cigarettes

SOMERVILLE, MA — Two recent three-alarm fires in Somerville were caused by the improper disposal of cigarettes, Fire Chief Charles Breen said Tuesday, calling such fires "disheartening."

"We have been fortunate that no one has been killed or seriously injured, although serious destruction has resulted," Breen said. "I am disappointed that the message of 'Put it out. All the way. Every time' is not being taken seriously."

The first fire was reported just after 3 p.m. Friday on Temple Street. Firefighters found heavy flames in the rear of the third floor, which spread into the third-floor apartment and into the attic space, eventually burning through the roof.

The building sustained heavy fire, smoke and water damage. Seven firefighters had minor injuries, and two pet cats, a rabbit and a bird were killed, Breen said. All nine residents were displaced.

The second fire was reported around 1:20 a.m. Tuesday on Bond Street. Firefighters found the front of the home fully engulfed in flames, which were spreading to the house next door. Breen said several Somerville police officers arrived first and were "instrumental" in evacuating both homes.

"The officers quickly realized the life safety hazard, and disregarding their own safety, worked to get residents out," Breen said.

The fire spread to all three floors, damaging both apartments in the home. Ten residents were displaced, and two Somerville firefighters and one Everett firefighter sustained minor injuries, Breen said.

Residents are urged to use a metal bucket or can full of sand or water to dispose of smoking materials.

"Do not extinguish smoking material in potted plants, on porch railings or in combustible containers," Breen said. "Also, do not toss smoking material off porches where it could land and ignite mulch or other combustible material."