E-cigarette charger prompts evacuation of East Grand Forks treatment facility

EAST GRAND FORKS, Minn. (KVRR-KFGO) – A substance use treatment facility in East Grand Forks was evacuated after a fire Wednesday afternoon.

Fire crews responded to multiple fire alarms at the Douglas Place, located at 1111 Gateway Drive NE, just after 2:30 p.m. on Dec. 3.

Firefighters arrived to find heavy smoke in the hallways of the building. Everyone inside was safely evacuated and no injuries were reported.

Crews found the source of the fire in a second-floor room and initiated an “aggressive interior attack.” The fire was contained and extinguished by 22 fire personnel who responded to the scene.

Investigators say the cause of the fire was an improvised charging device for a disposable e-cigarette.

The East Grand Forks Fire Department has the following safety reminders for people using e-cigarettes:

• Inspect chargers regularly, replace anything frayed or hot, and avoid charging on beds or under pillows where heat can build up.
• Unplug chargers when not in use, especially overnight or when leaving home.
• Bending or twisting cables weakens internal wires and increases arcing.
• Follow manufacturer guidelines on the proper use of chargers and charging cables.

The fire department was assisted by the East Grand Forks Police Department and Altru ambulance.