NICE >> A woman was pronounced dead after a blaze destroyed her trailer home in Nice on Tuesday evening. Two pet dogs were also lost to the fire.
An initial investigation found the fire began inside the home, located in the 3000 block of East Highway 20 at Sayre Avenue. Northshore Fire Chief Jay Beristianos said flames ignited after an electric heater was apparently turned facing too close to combustibles.
According to Beristianos, the fire began in the kitchen and is considered accidental.
First reports of the blaze were received just before 8:30 p.m. on Tuesday. Witnesses informed dispatch that one person was trapped inside. Crews from Northshore responded immediately and were able to gain control in short order.
“We had about 16 Northshore Fire personnel that quickly knocked down the fire,” Baristianos reported. “Our station is only one minute away — close, but unfortunately not close enough to have saved this poor lady.”
Two of her dogs died in the fire, as well. It was not certain if there were others.
Lake County Sheriff’s Office Lieutenant Corey Paulich said on Wednesday afternoon information on the victim has not yet been released as they are waiting for “positive identification.”
According to a report by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), space heaters are involved in 79 percent of home heating fire deaths. As the use of heaters peak during this time of year, NFPA is urging the public to follow safe heating procedures including keeping a three-feet distance between heaters and items that can burn.
Staff Writer Zack Jordan contributed to this report.
