A space heater that was being used improperly is believed to be the cause of a fire that damaged a home on Elm Street in Rolla early Monday morning.

A space heater that was being used improperly is believed to be the cause of a fire that damaged a home on Elm Street in Rolla early Monday morning.

Crews with the City of Rolla Fire and Rescue responded to the home blaze at 1605 N. Elm St. at about 1:21 a.m.

A quick search revealed that the house was vacant, according to a news release from the fire department.

An investigation by the fire department “determined the fire started in the kitchen area and was caused by the improper use of a space heater,” the news release stated.

Rolla fire officials say the heater was being used to keep water pipes from freezing.

The fire has been ruled accidental, according to the fire department.

The City of Rolla Fire and Rescue responded with nine firefighters along with a 75-foot ladder truck and a pumper.

When fire crews arrived on scene, they found “heavy fire coming from the kitchen area of the home.”

Two one-and-three-quarters-inch hose lines were used to contain the fire to the kitchen and porch area of the home.

“Weather conditions at the time of the fire were very adverse with high winds from the north,” said Rolla Fire Chief Ron Smith. “Our personnel worked to contain the fire and prevent further damage to the home with a great team effort in wintery conditions.”

Because of the weather conditions and the amount of fire in the building, off-duty personnel were called in and six firefighters responded.

Jeff Breen, assistant fire chief, warned the public about the proper use of space heaters.

“A space heater should only be used for temporary purposes and only used while attended by an adult,” Breen said.

The fire department received additional support from the Rolla Police Department, Phelps County Regional Medical Center, Rolla Municipal Utilities and Ameren.



