Fire investigators believe that a malfunctioning electrical circuit caused the three-alarm fire that destroyed a house at 38 Columbia Road on Monday morning.
The Portland Fire Department’s investigators determined the fire was accidental and may have been the result of improperly installed electrical components.
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“Any improperly installed, maintained or overloaded electrical system could present fire hazards,” said Chief Jerome LaMoria. “Any electrical work should always be performed by a qualified and licensed electrician to ensure safety.”
The fire was reported at 9 a.m. by someone who was passing by the house. The single occupant in the house was able to get out unharmed.
One firefighter suffered a leg injury but returned to work later in the day.
One engine from the Portland Fire Department was already deployed helping out at a fire in Falmouth, so LaMoria called for a third alarm summoning all available firefighters working in the city at that time.
The interior of the building was destroyed in the fire.
David Hench can be contacted at 791-6327 or at:
Twitter: @Mainehenchman
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