Chief Robert Valentine reports that the Groveland Fire Department responded to a back deck fire in town Sunday night.
At approximately 8:10 p.m., the Groveland Fire Department responded to a report of a small fire at a home at 15 Highland Ave.
A preliminary investigation indicates that the fire was caused when cold chicken wings were placed into a deep fryer on the rear deck of the home. The hot grease reacted with the cold chicken, causing a fire on and below the deck.
First responders arrived quickly, and found the fire on the back deck, which had begun to melt the vinyl siding on the home. Firefighters were able to extinguish the fire before it could extend to the home, and the fire was deemed under control at approximately 8:20 p.m. Crews left the scene at approximately 9 p.m.
No one was injured during the incident. Groveland Police also responded to the fire.
“Thankfully, our firefighters were able to respond swiftly to this incident, and prevented the fire from extending into the home,” Chief Valentine said. “The homeowner also reacted quickly, called 911 immediately and used a small fire extinguisher. We wish to remind Groveland residents that grills and fryers can be serious fire hazards, and should never be used on a wooden deck.”