ABINGDON, MD – A two-story home on Amy Drive was heavily damaged Tuesday evening after hot coals from a grill ignited a blaze that spread to the structure, according to the Office of the State Fire Marshal.
Firefighters responded to 421 Amy Drive around 6:06 p.m. for reports of a dwelling fire.
Crews arrived to find flames spreading from the exterior of the home’s attached garage.
The fire was brought under control within 15 minutes by 40 firefighters from the Abingdon Fire Company.
Owner tried to fight flames before calling 911
Investigators said the homeowner had discarded hot coals near a woodpile earlier in the day. A female occupant, who was home at the time, heard noises and discovered the fire spreading along the back of the house. She attempted to douse it with a garden hose but was unable to stop it.
No injuries were reported, but two adults were displaced. Harford County Disaster Assistance is helping the residents.
Damage estimated at half a million dollars
Officials estimated the loss at $400,000 to the structure and $100,000 to contents. The home did not have working smoke alarms or fire suppression systems, according to the investigation.
The Office of the State Fire Marshal ruled the fire accidental and urged residents to handle ashes and coals safely, emphasizing that all ashes should be treated as hot, even hours after use.
Fire marshal issues safety reminder
Residents are advised to store cooled ashes in a covered metal container kept at least 10 feet from any buildings and never place them on decks, porches, or in garages. Water should be poured into ash containers to ensure they are completely cool.