Newspapers and magazines near wood stove sparked blaze at winery

SHERWOOD, Ore. - A stack of newspapers and magazines in a wicker basket that was sitting next to a wood stove is what sparked a fire at a local winery, investigators determined.

The fire broke out around 1:20 a.m. Friday at the Barron-Wahl Vineyards at 27015 S.W. Ladd Hill Road, near Sherwood.

When firefighters arrived, the winery's tasting room was fully engulfed in flames. Strong winds, a lack of fire hydrants in the area and freezing water complicated things.

No one was hurt but two cats died in the fire. The damage is estimated at around $225,000.

In light of what happened, Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue issued the following safety tips:

• If using a fireplace or wood stove, check to ensure the flue is unobstructed and the damper is open. Always use a tight-fitting fireplace screen or glass doors to contain burning embers.
• Keep a close eye on your fire and keep it manageable. A fire that grows too large and hot can result in a chimney fire. Also, ensure your fire is extinguished before going to bed or leaving your home.
• Never use gasoline or lighter fluid to start a fire.
• Keep combustible materials (Christmas tree, furniture, paper, etc.) at least three feet away from fireplaces, wood stoves, and all heating devices.
• Ashes can rekindle and start a fire. Wait several days before cleaning out your fireplace or wood stove or dispose of ashes in a metal container with a lid, placed outside your home.
• Candles are a fire hazard - use only flashlights, battery-operated lanterns, and light sticks as emergency lighting in your home.
• Never use outdoor equipment including propane or kerosene heaters or charcoal barbecues inside a home due to the risk of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. CO is a colorless, odorless and tasteless gas that claims hundreds of lives every year.
• Gas-fueled generators must be used outside in a well-ventilated area to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Read and follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully before using a generator.
• Check your smoke alarms to ensure they are working and install a carbon monoxide detector as a precaution.