West Browns home damaged by improperly discarded woodstove ashes

Damage to the West Browns Road home is estimated at $15,000

The Huntsville/Lake of Bays Fire Department responded to a reported fire at a residence on ‎West Browns Rd. in Huntsville shortly before 1pm today (February 15). Upon arrival crews found fire in a wall that had extended in from the outside.

The homeowner discovered the fire after seeing smoke in the basement of the residence.

The cause was determined to be improperly discarded woodstove ashes. Damage to the residence is estimated to be $15,000. The home had working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.

The Huntsville/Lake of Bays Fire Department would like to remind residents to put their woodstove ashes in a covered metal container‎ and keep them at least 20 feet from any combustible surfaces. Dispose of them only after they have had time to completely cool.