Sault fire that damaged buildings caused by discarded smoke

Sault Ste. Marie police are on the scene of a fatal fire on Knox Avenue on Dec. 8/23. (File)

Improperly disposed of smoking materials caused a fire in Sault Ste. Marie on Tuesday, fire officials said in a news release.

Crews responded shortly after 4 p.m. to a residential fire in the 900 block of Wellington Street East.

“Upon arrival, there was visible smoke and fire emitting from a garbage receptacle outside of the dwelling,” the release said.

“Fire crews were able to contain the fire. Upon investigation, it was determined the fire was caused by improperly discarded smoking materials.”

As a result of the fire, the exterior of the residence and a neighbouring dwelling received damage. There were no injuries.

“Sault Ste. Marie Fire Services would like to remind all citizens to properly dispose of smoking materials in a metal container that is filled with sand or water, along with having a lid for even further protection,” the release said.

“Smoking materials should never be thrown on the ground, discarded in flower planters or garbage receptacles.”