Lincoln Fire and Rescue is investigating three fires reported over the weekend, including one that spread to two homes and caused more than $200,000 in damage. LFR Public Information Officer MJ Lierman says the fire near 69th and Huntington at 666 Huntington Avenue started in a detached garage.
Strong winds helped spread the flames to the home, a fence and the outside of a neighboring house. The fire caused an estimated $161,000 in damage to the homes and garage and about $60,000 in damage to contents, including a vehicle that was parked in the destroyed garage.
Lierman says investigators have been unable to enter the garage because of safety concerns. Another fire was reported at 4400 North 7th Street, where a vehicle fire in an apartment garage caused an estimated $35,000 in damage. Crews were able to contain that fire quickly.
A third near 38th and Sumner broke out early this morning and caused about $25,000 thousand dollars in damage to the outside of the home. Investigators believe an electrical issue involving Halloween decorations may have started that fire.
Lierman says people should use caution with outdoor electrical decorations and avoid using extension cords for continuous use. She also recommends using new, undamaged cords and keeping a close eye on electrical decorations while they are plugged in.
All three fires remain under investigation.