Iowa Motel Burns

SPIRIT LAKE, Iowa (AP) -- A malfunction in a timer used for security lights caused a fire that evacuated 17 guests at a motel, authorities said.

No one was injured in the fire at Northland Inn on Monday night.

The motel's foyer suffered heavy fire damage and 20 rooms had smoke damage, said David Schipper, deputy state fire marshal.

A further investigation will be completed by an electrician and insurance agent, Schipper said.

Information from: Sioux City Journal