Fatal Commerce house fire remains under investigation

COMMERCE, Okla. - The cause of a fatal house fire in Ottawa County earlier this week remains under investigation, said Quapaw Marshal Chief Charlie Addington.

Elizabeth Duffell, 60, of Commerce, died Monday in the house fire in the 400 block of North Elm Street. The initial call was that the house exploded and caught on fire. Reportedly, the back wall of the home blew out.

Addington said that cold weather can mean a greater risk of a house fire.

Regarding safety practices in general, Addington said a chief concern during the colder months is issues with chimney fires.

"We recommend cleaning your chimney before cold weather sets in," Addington said.

Other safety issues are that Christmas presents too close to a fireplace, and electrical cords and overloaded outlets can cause a fire.

“December is the peak time for home fires involving candles and holiday decorations,” said Terra Jeffres, Red Cross of Southern Missouri Interim Executive Director. “Help protect your family by using battery-operated candles and practicing your two-minute escape plan with everyone in your household.”

Red Cross of Southern Missouri Holiday Decorating Safety Tips 

• Ensure outside decorations are for outdoor use and fasten lights securely to your home or trees. If using hooks or nails outside, ensure they are insulated to avoid an electrocution or fire hazard.
• If you must use candles, keep them away from anything that could burn, and place them out of reach of pets and children. Never leave burning candles unattended.
• If buying an artificial tree, look for a fire-resistant label. Keep it away from fireplaces, radiators, and other heat sources when putting it up. Never use electric lights on metallic trees.
• If getting a live tree, make sure it’s fresh and keep it watered. To test if the tree is fresh, bend the needles up and down to ensure no needles fall off.
• Don’t light the fireplace if hanging stockings or other decorations on the mantel.

If you cannot afford to purchase smoke alarms or are physically unable to install one, the Red Cross may be able to help. Click here for information on the Oklahoma Red Cross.