Lit candle cause of Brockton fire
A three-alarm Brockton fire that sent seven people to the hospital, including five residents who were rescued as they were hanging from windows, was sparked by a candle, according to fire officials.
Brockton firefighters responded to 25 Central Sq., for a report of a residential fire early Sunday morning. On arrival, firefighters saw heavy fire on the triple-decker’s second and third floors, with residents hanging from thirdfloor windows.
Firefighters rescued five people over ground ladders. These five residents, along with two others, were transported to area hospitals with injuries. The fire went to three alarms before it was knocked down about an hour later.
The origin and cause of the fire were investigated by the Brockton Fire Department, the Brockton Police Department’s Fire Investigation Unit, and State Police fire investigators assigned to the State Fire Marshal’s office.
The officials determined that the fire began in a bedroom near the right rear corner of the second floor, and that it was sparked by a candle that ignited flammable items on a bedside table.
“This fire had every potential to be a terrible tragedy, and I want to recognize the outstanding work of Brockton firefighters in rescuing residents from the danger,” said Brockton Fire Chief Brian Nardelli. “We believe the fire started with a candle, which ignited flammable items nearby.
“If you use candles at home, please remember to keep anything that can burn at least a foot away on all sides,” he added. “Always place them on a sturdy, nonflammable saucer or candleholder. And never leave a burning candle unattended — always blow it out before you leave the room or go to sleep.”
Candles cause about 100 fires each year in Massachusetts.
“Almost all of them take place in people’s homes, and almost all of them can be prevented by using extra caution,” said State Fire Marshal Peter Ostroskey. “Even better, try battery-powered alternatives, like flashlights for emergencies and flameless candles for decoration and celebration. They’re much safer than an open flame.”