Space Heater Cause Of Playhouse Blaze

The basement fire that caused roughly $50,000 in damage to the Lake City Playhouse Sunday was caused by a faulty electric space heater, fire officials said Monday.

A splice on the heater’s electric cord became hot and shorted out, igniting some items in the basement and triggering the blaze, said Coeur d’Alene Assistant Fire Chief Mike Budvarson. The basement was full of costumes and props.

Investigators also found numerous violations of fire, building and electrical codes, according to a police report on the blaze. For example, the main fire sprinkler control valve was shut off. Fire officials declared the building unsafe for public occupancy.

The fire came only days before Friday’s opening performance of “Make a Joyful Noise,” a holiday musical. Theater organizers are trying to find an alternative venue.

, DataTimes