kupchurch@heraldsun.com; 919-419-6612
DURHAM – Durham city firefighters were busy Sunday night and early Monday with fires at an apartment complex, a construction trailer and a vacant home.
No injuries were reported, but two people were displaced.
The first call came in at 7:26 p.m. Sunday to an apartment fire at 1552-F Sima St., according to Durham Fire Department spokeswoman Sierra Jackson. She said flames were shooting through the roof when firefighters arrived, but were quickly extinguished.
The resident said she left the apartment briefly while a candle was lit. An adult and infant were displaced, but the Red Cross is helping with temporary housing and food.
At 3:33 a.m. Monday, firefighters got a call to a fire at a vacant, single-family dwelling at 2012 Ashe St. Jackson said the home had boarded-up windows. She said the fire does not appear to be suspicious and has been ruled an accident.
The third fire was at a construction trailer at 2223 Erwin Road. Firefighters were called at 3:35 a.m. Monday to the scene, and saw flames coming through the roof. The cause is being investigated.
Fire officials offer these fire safety tips:
- Keep materials at least three feet from candles, portable heaters and stoves.
- Never use an oven to heat your home.
- Don’t leave candles or food on the stove unattended.
- Don’t overload power strips and extension cords.
- When wires become frayed, throw them away. Don’t tape or try to repair them.
Officials also offer these Christmas tree tips:
- Keep live trees as moist as possible by giving them plenty of water daily.
- Always unplug Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to bed.
- Keep your tree at least three feet from heat sources.
- Safely dispose of the tree when it begins dropping needles.
