GREENFIELD — Officials say the improper disposal of ashes from a wood stove has been ruled the cause of a fire on Leyden Road Wednesday morning that reportedly killed two cats and displaced five people.
The determination was made following an investigation by the State Fire Marshal’s Office and local police and fire departments, according to Greenfield Fire Chief Robert Strahan.
“(Ashes) should be removed from the building — away from the building — in a fire-proof container,” he said.
The fire at the duplex at 603 Leyden Road caused extensive damage to the basement and smoke damage throughout the rest of the house, he said. No residents reported injuries.
“Two firefighters who received minor injuries were treated on the scene and released,” Strahan said.
The fire, which was called in at around 6:30 a.m. on Wednesday, reportedly started in the basement of the building and extended to the first floor from the exterior in two locations.
Strahan said on Wednesday the American Red Cross and Salvation Army would work with the displaced residents to get them temporary housing.
All off-duty Greenfield Fire Department personnel responded to the fire. Aid was requested from Turners Falls, Bernardston and South Deerfield. The Deerfield Fire Department provided an engine to Greenfield for station coverage.
Mary Byrne can be reached at mbyrne@recorder.com or 413-930-4429. Twitter: @MaryEByrne