SOUTH PORTLAND — A fire that broke out in the basement of a Willard Square home earlier tonight was quickly brought under control, thanks in part to the efforts of the homeowner.

Mary Sullivan of 15 Bayview St. was checked out by firefighters, but did not suffer any serious injuries after using a fire extinguisher and garden hose to keep the fire in her basement from spreading.

Lt. Chris Copp said the fire was confined to the basement. The fire, which was reported around 7:30 p.m., damaged the home’s electrical system. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.