Firefighters Respond to Early Morning Fires

TYLER — A house was destroyed in an early morning fire in North side of Tyler. According to KETK, firefighters were called to 1718 West 24th street around 1:00 Tuesday morning. The Smith County Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating the cause of the blaze. No injuries were reported. Officials remind residents to use extra caution when using space heaters and cooking appliance.

Firefighters were called to a second fire around 3:40 Tuesday morning in the 2400 block of Old Gladewater Hwy. The residents were able to escape unharmed. Officials said the fire started in the kitchen area and was quickly extinguished. The blaze was the result of an overloaded electrical system. The home suffered moderate damage and no injuries were reported.

The Tyler Fire Department reminds citizens to take precaution when using electrical equipment in their homes. According to the National Fire Protection Association, fire departments in the United States respond to an estimated average of 47,820 home fires each year involving electrical failure or malfunction in the home.

Citizens are urged to consider the following recommendations:

* Never use extension cords with appliances. Plug them directly into wall
outlets.

* Replace worn or damaged cords immediately. Do not try to repair them.

* Avoid putting cords where they can be damaged or pinched.

* Buy only appliances approved by a recognized testing lab.

* Use light bulbs that match the recommended wattage.

* Have all electrical work done by a licensed electrician.

For more information on fire prevention and safety, please contact the Tyler Fire
Marshal’s Office at 903-535-0005.