Oil rags blamed for fire that damages Mount Prospect home

A fire early Friday morning in Mount Prospect was caused by the spontaneous combustion of oil soaked rags, authorities said.

The blaze broke out at 2:49 a.m. in the basement of a home on the 1900 block of Seneca Lane and spread to the walls of the first floor. Firefighters were able to put it out in about 25 minutes.

No injuries were reported, and officials said the home’s occupants were able to exit quickly because of working smoke detectors. Damage is estimated to be $150,000.