Recalled dehumidifier blamed for Mount Prospect house fire

Authorities say a faulty dehumidifier that had previously been recalled is to blame for a fire last week that damaged a Mount Prospect home.

Mount Prospect firefighters called to the residence in the 100 block of West Berkshire Lane about 4:18 p.m. Wednesday found smoke coming from the basement of a single-family home. They were able to bring the fire under control in about 15 minutes. Damage was estimated at $4,000 and no injuries were reported.

Officials said the fire appears to be caused by the failure of a dehumidifier that had been part of a safety recall. authorities recommend that homeowners visit the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission website, www.cpsc.gov, to ensure their dehumidifier is not on the recall list.

"This fire could have been much worse, and we want to make sure that the community is aware of the recall and potential fire hazards," Chief Brian Lambel said in a news release. "At the same time, it is vital for everyone to check that there are working smoke alarms on all levels of the home."