Space heater suspected in Wheaton fire

Improper use of a space heater may have sparked a New Year's Eve structure fire in Wheaton, officials said Friday.

Wheaton firefighters were dispatched about 3 p.m. Wednesday to a townhouse at 1124 Bunker Hill Court. When they arrived, the saw smoke coming out of a second floor and found a fire in Unit A of the building.

Residents who were inside the building escaped before firefighters arrived. No injuries were reported.

Authorities said the blaze was brought under control within 15 minutes. The fire didn't extend to any adjoining structures, but several adjoining units received moderate smoke and water damage, officials said.

Fire officials said the cause of the blaze appears to be accidental and most likely is related to improper use of a space heater. A damage estimate wasn't available.

A Wheaton building inspector has declared the building uninhabitable. All displaced residents obtained shelter with either family or friends, officials said.