Teen hurt in Palatine fire; Christmas decoration eyed as possible cause

A Palatine house fire Tuesday morning might have been triggered by Christmas decorations.

Palatine firefighters are still investigating the blaze, which was reported around 8:20 a.m. on the 600 block of South Bennett Avenue. It caused about $250,000 in damage.

A teenage girl and a dog were the only ones home at the time and escaped safely before firefighters arrived.

The girl was taken to Northwest Community Hospital for smoke inhalation and was in stable condition, according to fire officials.

When firefighters arrived on the scene, heavy smoke was pouring out of the front windows and front door of the split-level house. Flames were also visible in the living room.

The fire was out within five minutes, but there was heavy heat and smoke damage throughout the house, which is now deemed uninhabitable.

Initial reports showed the fire might have been caused by holiday decorations, but fire Capt. Doug Hoyt said the investigation into the cause is ongoing.

A total of 21 firefighters were at the scene.

Palatine firefighters remind people to keep real trees well- watered and to keep all heat sources away from trees and wreaths.

In addition, people should use only tested lights on any decorations, including artificial trees.

Holiday candles can also be source of fires if they aren't used properly. Keep them on solid, non-combustible bases well away from any flammable materials.