The Temple Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating two suspicious house fires in East Temple.
According to Temple Fire and Rescue, on Sunday before 3:30 a.m., firefighters responded to a reported house fire at 512 East Avenue F.
While they were responding, smoke was also seen coming from a nearby home at 517 East Avenue E.
The building at 512 East Avenue F received extensive damage and is a total loss. The building at 517 East Avenue E received fire, smoke and heat damage.
Both homes were determined to be vacant.
After an investigation, it was determined that the fire started in the living room of the house fire at 512 East Avenue I. Due to the extent of damage in the room, the cause of the blaze is ruled undetermined.
Since Nov. 30, the Fire Marshal’s Office determined there were six fires as suspicious.
There were five house fires and one vehicle fire. The homes were vacant or being remodeled. The fires were all located throughout the city.
According to the U.S. Fire Administration, the leading cause of vacant house fires was intentional actions at 34 percent.
The next three leading causes combined accounted for one-third of vacant house fires: open flame at 13 percent, other unintentional, careless actions at 12 percent and electrical malfunction at eight percent.
Homeowners can take simple and effective steps to reduce their risk:
- Keep the area tidy by mowing grass and remove trash from around the property.
- Remove all possible sources of ignition such as flammable liquids and unused gasoline containers.
- Secure abandoned and vacant homes which are potential targets. Make sure doors and windows are locked. Cover broken windows with Clear board. These products are composed of polycarbonate. They are weather resistant and superior to plywood which can easily be pried off the building.
- Turn porch lights on at night. Consider adding additional lighting as necessary.
- Check vacant property on a regular basis.
- Consider adding a security system.
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