A basement fire caused an estimated $100,000 in damage to a semi-detached home on Dane Avenue in North Bay Tuesday night, but no injuries were reported.
North Bay Fire and Emergency Services responded just after 8 p.m., with crews from all three fire stations attending the scene. The home’s occupant safely escaped after being alerted by working smoke alarms, then called 911 and warned neighbouring residents, who also evacuated safely with their pets.
Firefighters contained the blaze to the basement, although smoke damage extended to other parts of the home. Officials say basement fires are especially hazardous because of intense heat, limited access, and the rapid spread of smoke and flames.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation, but it is not considered suspicious.