Cause Of Fire That Destroyed Camden Co. Apartment Building Identified

PINE HILL, NJ — A fire that destroyed a Pine Hill apartment building, displaced dozens of people and hospitalized several first responders was caused by careless smoking, officials told Patch.

The Mansion Apartments went ablaze Tuesday evening, gutting the 16-unit complex and displacing 26 residents. Five police officers and a firefighters were brought to the hospital for smoke inhalation.

The fire came from a second-floor balcony.

Investigators found that careless smoking caused the fire. A Camden County spokesperson said they're unaware of any charges being filed.

It's unclear whether the actions will result in any charges or summonses.

No residents were injured, but many lost everything. Volunteers of America Delaware Valley, a local charity, collected donations of clothing and other necessities for the impacted families.

The organization said it can no longer accept donations at this time because of the community's "overwhelming generosity."

During the drought, dry conditions have fueled fires small and large throughout the region. Officials have urged people against tossing cigarettes and smoking materials onto the ground, among other safety tips.

Two weeks ago, an intense house fire in Evesham was caused by "improperly discarded smoking materials," officials said.

Here are more tips on preventing outdoor fires, from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection:

• Don't discard cigarettes, matches or smoking materials on the ground.
• Use indoor wood stoves and fireplaces carefully, since both can emit embers that spark fires. Fully douse ashes with water before disposal.
• When towing a trailer, check that you aren't dragging chains. If a trailer chain drags on the road, it can create sparks that fly into nearby vegetation, igniting a wildfire.
• Be mindful where you park or drive your vehicle. Hot exhaust systems can ignite dry vegetation if parked or driven over it.
• Be careful when cutting your grass or using other yard tools. Power tools like lawnmowers and chainsaws can throw off sparks that ignite dry grass or leaves.
• Keep matches and lighters away from children. Teach youth about fire safety. Children can learn about wildfire safety with Smokey Bear's new mobile game Smokey’s Scouts.