FREDERICK, Md. --
Firefighters said a Christmas tree is to blame for a house fire in Frederick on Tuesday.
Firefighters quickly extinguished the fire in a home located in the 1300 block of Peachtree Court. They also rescued two dogs that were trapped in the home after a fire broke out late Tuesday morning.
Fire officials said they believe the fire began on the first floor. Fire officials said the cause of the fire was an electrical malfunction with the lights on an artificial pre-lit Christmas tree. Damage is estimated at $120,000.
No one was home at the time of the fire, which was reported by a neighbor.
About 30 firefighters from six different units responded to the scene, fire officials said.
Officials are cautioning residents to turn off their holiday decorations when they leave home. Fire officials said if people suspect problems with electrical decorations, they should have them repaired or dispose of them properly. They also urge people to check smoke alarms to make sure they are working and have a plan of escape to get out of the home in the event of a fire.
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