A carelessly discarded cigarette was blamed for a fire that displaced five people at a Washougal home early today.
The fire was reported about 3 a.m. at 2257 N. O St. The family of three adults and two children were sleeping when one of them awoke to hear the sound of the fire and a neighbor pounding on the door, according to Camas-Washougal Fire Chief Nick Swinhart. The family safely escaped. One person was examined for smoke inhalation but was not taken to the hospital.
Firefighters arrived a few minutes later to find the south side of the house on fire, including the roof and part of the attic.
The fire was under control in about 30 minutes, but the house is likely a total loss, and all the contents were severely damaged, according to a a news release from Swinhart. The family, which was renting the home, is being assisted by the American Red Cross. They will be staying with other family members in the area.
