WATERVILLE, ME — Investigators with the State Fire Marshal’s Office responded to 3 Aubrey St. shortly after 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at the request of the Waterville Fire Department for a reported structure fire.
The fire was contained to the enclosed porch of the residence causing only minor smoke damage inside the home.
The porch sustained heavy fire damage.
Investigators concluded the fire was a result of the improper disposal of oil-based staining rags placed in a trash bag.
When confined, staining rags can spontaneously combust and cause a fire.
The Fire Marshal’s Office reminded residents that staining rags should be disposed of safely, outside the residence or garage.
It is recommended rags be submerged in a bucket of water or laid out flat to dry on a non-combustible surface such as a dirt or paved driveway.
