A potential disaster was narrowly avoided early Sunday morning when a fire broke out on the porch of a home on Freehold Road. Thanks to the quick response of the homeowner and the use of a fire extinguisher, the flames were contained before they could spread to the rest of the house.
Firefighters from the Jackson Mills and Cassville Fire Companies arrived on the scene shortly after the emergency call was placed. By the time they arrived, the fire was already under control, with damage limited to the porch area.
Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and the homeowner is cooperating with investigators.
Following an investigation, the Jackson Township Fire Bureau determined that the fire was caused by an electrical failure in a retractable power cord. Officials noted that such malfunctions can be difficult to anticipate, as they often result from gradual wear and tear.
“We’re thankful that the homeowner was able to act quickly and safely,” said Fire Official Stanley O’Brien Jr. “Using a fire extinguisher can be crucial in stopping a fire before it spreads, and in this case, it likely prevented significant damage to the home.”
In the wake of the incident, fire officials are urging residents to inspect electrical cords regularly, particularly retractable ones, for signs of fraying or damage. Experts recommend replacing any worn or damaged cords immediately and adhering to manufacturer safety guidelines.
