Fire Department

Fire crews were called to an east side apartment, where a small fire broke out resulting from improperly discarded cigarettes.

Engine Co. 5, Medic 5, and other east side fire crews responded to the 5800 block of Gemini Drive. There, a plastic planter pot had been used as an ashtray and receptacle for cigarette butts. A fire ignited, melting the pot and transferring heat to the building components adjacent to it. Firefighters cooled the area with water and checked the siding and interior walls to ensure fire had not spread into the building. Nobody was injured or displaced.

The Madison Fire Department has responded to a number of fires this summer confirmed or suspected to be caused by improperly discarded smoking materials. Firefighters issue the following reminders:

• Discard your cigarettes in a container that won’t catch on fire. Use an approved ashtray, metal coffee canister, or a bucket with sand.
• Put your cigarette out all the way. Pour water on the ashes and butts to make sure they are totally extinguished before placing them in the trash.
• Empty your ashtray often so cigarette butts don’t pile up. Even if you throw your cigarettes in a proper receptacle, the butts can still catch on fire, especially if the receptacle is full.