SPRINGFIELD — A 68-year-old woman died Sunday in an apartment fire, the state fire marshal’s office said.
The fire started in the living room of the apartment in the 25000 block of Blood River Road around 8:30 p.m. Sunday, but investigators aren’t sure what caused it.
The name of the woman who died has not been released at this time.
Her apartment and neighboring apartments all had working smoke detectors, the fire marshal’s office said.
State Fire Marshal Bryan Adams said smoke alarms are a powerful early warning system that, when used properly, can save lives. No home should be without them, he said.
His office can provide free alarms and installation. People who need alarms can contact their local fire department or can reach his office at lasfm.org.
Adams said smoking remains a leading cause of fatal home fires.
“Residents can reduce their risk by smoking outdoors, using deep, sturdy ashtrays and avoiding smoking in bed or while drowsy,” he said, adding that people should never smoke near medical oxygen and should keep lighters and matches away from children.
Improper handling of smoking materials or batteries have not been ruled out as potential causes of the fire.
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