An early-morning structure fire has resulted in extensive smoke damage to a Main Street home. It was 6:14 a.m. when Bridgeport Fire Department was dispatched to 201 East Main Street, next to Ford Funeral Home.

 

“There was a report of a house filling full of smoke and upon the fire department’s arrival, there was heavy smoke showing,” said Fire Chief Phil Hart. “The fire was located in the basement and extended up the basement steps into the kitchen.”

 

The fire was contained to the basement and kitchen areas, but there was extensive smoke damage throughout the home. The fire spread quickly to the upstairs because the interior door between the basement and stairway was open, Hart said.

 

The two occupants of the home were still sleeping when the fire broke out, but a smoke alarm alerted them and they were able to safely exit the home.

 

“They were both out of the home when the firemen arrived,” Hart said.

 

Neither were transported to the hospital, but one of the individuals, a man, did go to the hospital and was treated for smoke inhalation, but has no significant injuries.

 

Assistance was provided by Bridgeport Police and Shinnston and Nutter Fort fire departments.

 

Hart said the fire appears to be accidental. He also said the occupants were fortunate, likely thanks to a working smoke detector.

 

“They were alerted of the fire, which allowed them to escape the structure,” he said. “That’s one positive thing. Had it not been for the working smoke detector, it could have resulted in injury, if not fatality.”

 

Hart also encourages residents to keep interior doors shut.

 

“That’s how the fire extended so quickly from the basement to the living quarters,” he said. “(The fire) shot up the stairs like a funnel.”

 

With the winter season and holiday season upon us – with heating sources, Christmas trees and various other fire hazards - Hart urges residents to make sure there is a working smoke detector in the home.