Flames erupt in Pacific Beach apartment, likely from space heater
SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — A Pacific Beach apartment sustained significant damage Tuesday morning in a fire that appeared to have been caused by an untended space heater, according to San Diego Fire-Rescue.
The fire was called in around 5:35 a.m. when smoke was seen billowing out of a first-floor unit of a complex at 1941 Thomas Ave. Crews arrived on scene shortly afterwards at 5:40 a.m.
According to SDFD Battalion Chief Chad Willenberg, firefighters took an aggressive approach to extinguish the fire, containing it to the bedroom before knocking it down. It was brought under control after about 25 minutes.
South Bay crash stalls MTS service, leaves hundreds without power
No one was inside the apartment when the fire broke out and no injuries were reported to other residents or fire crews. SDFD added Red Cross is not assisting the resident, as they will be staying with a friend.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation, but Willenberg said that it appears to be consistent with one sparked by a space heater.
“In the winter months, it’s important to keep your space heater way from any combustibles and make sure you blow out any candles before going to bed,” he said. “Most importantly, make sure you have a working smoke detector, that’s what initiated the call from this fire.”
For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News.
