BEND, OR -- Investigators say an extension cord used to provide air conditioning caused a garage fire in northeast Bend, Tuesday afternoon. Firefighters responded to NE Seward Ave. just before 4:30 p.m. The owners were home and smelled smoke after noticing breakers had tripped in their main electrical panel. They found the garage full of smoke and called 911.

First arriving fire crews found fire had spread from the garage into the attic. The fire was quickly stopped and ventilated to prevent further damage to the home and belongings. American Red Cross responded to assist the owners with a place to stay for a few nights. BPD assisted with traffic control. Bend Fire Department volunteers responded with cooling supplies to help fire crews handle the 100 deg weather while working at the house fire. 

The owners have a camper next to the house and were using its air conditioner to keep cool. When they went to the camper Tuesday, they found the power off and AC not working. They then noticed the tripped breaker. It was determined the cord to power the camper failed in the garage and started the fire. 

The gauge of the cord was too small to handle the power draw of the AC operating in the camper. It's undetermined if the cord failed due to the power draw or if it had been damaged beforehand. Bend Fire reminds everyone to always ensure extension cords are used properly to prevent fires or damage. Ensure the size and amperage limits of the cord match the usage. Ensure the cord is not pinched, trapped or damaged in any way. This damage can lead to a fire or short. Only use one cord between the appliance and the outlet to reduce the chance of failure. 

Photo Courtesy of Bend Fire