Las Vegas NV (KXNT) - A family of 4 is being helped by the American Red Cross after fire caused over $100,000 is damage to their west-side home on Thursday.
Las Vegas firefighters responded to the home on Altamira Rd (nearBuffalo/Alta) at 3:15 p.m. Thursday after fire dispatchers received several calls that a house was on fire. Initial reports were it was the kitchen on fire.
Smoke and flames were showing from the rear of a one story house when firefighters arrived. Firefighters discovered the attic, kitchen and living room on fire. Firefighters gained control in less than ten minutes.
Fire investigators believe the fire started outside on the patio. It then burned up a wall extending into the attic through the eaves, then spread to the interior kitchen and living room. Damage was estimated at $125,000.
The cause of the fire is undetermined. One possibility that could not be ruled out was the fire started due to what firefighters term “oily rags.” The occupants were staining a deck outside earlier with painting chemicals. Rags left out in the sun during the hottest part of the day can start due to spontaneous combustion. This is rare but not uncommon in Las Vegas.
Other fires have started in the past due to aerosol cans (like spray paint), pool chemicals, artist paint and other chemicals started on fire when they were left exposed to direct sunlight especially during the afternoon. Anything left exposed to direct sunlight can be damaged or destroyed. It is something that people living in one of the hottest cities in the country needs to be aware of and take extra precautions.
The American Red Cross is assisting three adults, one child and two dogs who are displaced. A pet cat was unable to get out and was found lifeless by firefighters.
There were no injuries reported during the incident.