Improper use of a holiday light cord likely caused a house fire on Friday, April 5, in Fosston, according to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety State Fire Marshal (SFM) division’s preliminary investigation.
Fosston Police Chief Jim Juve reminded residents that holiday light cords should be used for one purpose only — to plug in holiday lights, not other devices. He also urged people not to use extension cords in combination with power (plug-in) strips.
“A house fire is devastating for those involved, which is why our fire department partners always say ‘the best fire is one that never starts in the first place,’” said Fosston Police Chief Jim Juve. “Using those cords improperly may not seem like a big deal, but it is.”
The home’s occupant escaped uninjured from the single-family residence located in the 700 block of 1st Street East.
“This incident could have just as easily ended in tragedy. We’re thankful it didn’t,” Juve said.
