Watertown Fire Rescue(WFR) responded to a residential fire at 206 1st Ave SW at 12:37 pm. Upon arrival, WFR found the power line serving the residence was arcing at the meter box and up the wall. WFR . While waiting for Utilities to arrive, WFR personnel remained a safe distance from the power line and conducted an interior search of the residence to check for any residents and extension of fire into the interior. A near by residence was evacuated as the effected power line was in close proximity to the home. When Utilities arrived and confirmed that the power line was inactive, WFR personnel extinguished what fire was visible on the exterior and interior of the residence. A thorough salvage and overhaul was conducted to ensure all fire was extinguished. Minimal damage occurred to the residence.
WFR would like to remind everyone that when a power line is on fire or arcing to remain a safe distance away. Arcing power lines can whip and fall without warning. A downed power line is considered live until verified by utilities.