Halloween Display May Have Sparked Bethel Porch Fire: Officials

BETHEL, CT — A Halloween display may have sparked a fire on the front porch of a Bethel home earlier this month, but the quick actions of two firefighters prevented the flames from spreading, according to Bethel Fire & EMS.

The incident occurred Oct. 9, when Bethel Fire Chief Bill McAllister was pulling into the firehouse and was flagged down by a passing motorist who noticed smoke coming from the porch of a nearby home.

McAllister investigated and discovered significant smoke and flames coming from the porch, prompting him to request a first-alarm structure fire response.

The motorist, also a trained volunteer firefighter with the Georgetown Volunteer Fire Company, was instructed to retrieve a fire extinguisher from the chief's SUV. McAllister used a second extinguisher as additional volunteers assembled at their stations.

The firefighters quickly extinguished the flames, which had spread to the porch railing, trim and ceiling, according to the department.

Officials said the fire may have originated from a Halloween display, although the exact cause remains undetermined. The Bethel Fire Marshal's Office is investigating.

Bethel Fire & EMS also encouraged residents to review Halloween fire safety precautions, pointing to guidance from the National Fire Protection Association.