Malfunctioning Ceiling Fan Ignites Easton Fire

A house fire in Easton late Sunday night was caused by a malfunctioning ceiling fan, according to fire officials.

The Easton Fire Department reported the fire took place at 11:55 p.m. at 864 Washington St.

“This is the second ceiling fan fire in approximately three months in Easton,” Fire Chief Kevin Partridge said.

The fire was caused by a malfunctioning and overheating of the light and fan unit on the bathroom ceiling. The circuit breaker for the bathroom was popped which indicated an issue with the circuit, fire officials said.

“There was plywood in contact direct contact with the unit which ignited and spread to the attic,” Partridge said.

The fire in the attic caused burned roof joists and plywood, official said.

The fire was discovered in the home when a household member heard glass break and went into the bathroom to investigate. He then saw flames coming from the ceiling fan in the bathroom. His mother threw a cup of water on the fan to slow the fire and called 911.

The mother, son and daughter waited outside their house until the fire department arrived.

The Easton Fire Department responded to the fire with Engine 4, Ladder 1 and Ambulance 1.

A fire engine from West Bridgewater responded to the scene for assistance. Fire crews remained on scene for about an hour to complete the overhaul.

In case of household fires, residents should make sure they all have working smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors in their homes, Partridge said.

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