A homeowner working on a motorcycle in his garage, sparked a fire Friday morning that destroyed the house, and set a pick-up truck in the driveway ablaze.
Sarnia Fire Prevention Officer Roel Bus says fire crews responded to the 200-block of Vidal St. N at about 11am.
"The motorcycle backfired which ruptured and melted the gasoline line, so there was quite a bit of fire on the bike itself," says Bus. "[The owner] was unsuccessful in his attempt to put out the fire. It then spread to the garage, got up into the attic of the garage and actually spread into the house as well."
Bus says significant damage was done to the attic and the main floor of the brick home.
Damage is estimated at around $300,000.
The homeowner suffered minor burns.
The initial fire was brought under control quickly, and while smouldering insulation in the attic created difficulties, firefighters were able to prevent any damage to a neighbouring house.
Vidal St. was closed from London Rd. to George St. and motorists were advised to stay clear of the area.
Sarnia fire recommends that maintenance on vehicles be done outdoors if at all possible.
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