Westport home a total loss after fire breaks out

WESTPORT — There were no casualties, but a fire caused an estimated $350,000 in damage to a home at 117 Charlotte White Road Extension, according to a release from the Fire Department.

The fire broke out at approximately noon and the cause appears to be accidental, also according to authorities. As of press time, fire officials said the cause was still under investigation.

The release stated that the occupant called 911 from his cell phone, which led to a slight delay as Massachusetts State Police fielded the call. After confirming that there were no occupants, a state police dispatcher notified Westport police and fire officials of the fire.

Also according to the release, Fire Chief Legendre arrived on the scene two minutes after the call came in. Legendre reported the fire was in a fully involved one-story wood frame house.

The fire spread to the attic and basement, turning damage into a total loss, officials also said.

Due to the location of the fire and lack of hydrants, mutual aid was brought in from Little Compton, Tiverton, Dartmouth and Fall River Fire Departments. The firefighters were also challenged by a live electrical line that fell from the house and landed in the driveway.

The Red Cross arrived on scene to aid the couple, Paul and Carmen Morrissette, owners of the home.

The occupant who called was treated at the scene by paramedics. Firefighters were not injured fighting the blaze.

Some neighbors took to Facebook and encouraged people to call Westport Fire directly at 508-636-1110 in case of a fire, rather than 911, to avoid delays.

Neighbor Jeanne Porter-Girard saw the fire from her window and was amazed at how quickly it spread.

“There was little time between seeing some flames from my window to witnessing their home being consumed,” she said. “It made me evaluate how prepared we are and review fire safety with my children.”