Wyman Street Fire Probably Involved A Space Heater: Chief Adgate

WOBURN, MA — A Tuesday afternoon fire in a Wyman Street garage probably involved a space heater, Woburn Fire Chief Stephen Adgate said Wednesday. The fire required all the department's resources, and took over an hour to fight, Adgate said. There was considerable damage to the garage and its contents, but no one was injured and the house was safe for residents to return home for the night.

"The cause is still under investigation," Adgate said. "We feel pretty confident that it had to do with a space heater, which indicates the importance of making sure that people utilizing space heaters follow all the directions and the rules for making sure they don't jeopardize their safety."

Adgate noted the very cold forecast for Thursday morning, and pointed residents to the department's resources for winter heating safety, including space heaters. The Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends space heaters be placed at least three feet away from flammable materials.

There were no injuries to residents or firefighters, Adgate said, but there was "considerable damage." The department responded with extra resources, including an ambulance, due to the icy weather Tuesday night. During a working fire, when all department resources are in use, mutual aid from neighboring departments covers for Woburn Fire.

"The guys did an excellent job, given the conditions," said Adgate. "The fortunate thing is, nobody was hurt."

Christopher Huffaker can be reached at 412-265-8353 or chris.huffaker@patch.com.