Careless disposal of smoking material was the cause of the two-alarm blaze at 155 Pauline St., on April 3, causing more than $250,000 in damages to a single-family home.
Fire Chief Paul Flanagan said numerous calls came in to regional dispatch at 8:56 p.m. reporting a building fire on multiple different streets, due to people’s confusion over the volume of smoke in the area. It was soon determined that the fire was at 155 Pauline St.
“Upon arrival the entire back of the building, of a two-family home was fully involved and fire had entered the attic,†Flanagan said. “The fire originated on the back porch which was new and constructed of plastic decking. The northwest winds were also a factor.â€
During the fire winds were between 30-35 mph and gusted at times over 40 mph.
“It was the wind that forced the fire up and over the building and into the attic,†Flanagan said.
Fire department crews went in and knocked the fire down. There was also a car on fire in the driveway.
There were no serious injuries. One police officer assisted a woman out of the first floor who was trying to rescue her pets. They were treated for smoke inhalation.
Fire crews from MassPort, Chelsea, Boston and Revere. The state fire marshal assisted in the investigation for cause of origin.
The home is owned by Chris and Cheryl Wolsesley. Four people were displaced due to the fire. Their two dogs Ted and Stanley and a cat were fine.
“The house is not a total loss, but badly damaged,†Flanagan said. “The firefighters deserve credit due to the winds. The fire could have easily jumped to adjoining structures.â€
How to help:
Gift cards are being collected for the Wolsesly family and two tenants – Target, Best Buy, Home Depot, Stop and Shop and Winthrop Marketplace among others. Any help is appreciated. Donations are being accepted at Pleasant Park Yacht Club and Citizens Bank in Winthrop.