At 9:54 pm Sunday evening, the Bismarck Fire Department responded to a house fire in the 2000 block of St. Benedict Drive. Upon arrival, firefighters encountered heavy smoke and fire coming from the garage. Firefighters battled the fire, contained it to the garage and prevented it from spreading to the house. Firefighters were also able to remove a motorcycle from the garage and save it from further damage.

A neighbor reported the fire to the residents, and they exited the home safely. There were no injuries to residents or firefighters.

The residents will, at least temporarily, be displaced by the fire. Red Cross has provided temporary housing assistance to the displaced family.

The fire damage is limited to the garage and the attic of the house. There was some smoke damage in the house. Preliminary fire loss estimates to the building and contents are $50,000. The cause of the fire remains under investigation, but appears to be accidental. It appears to have been started by hot ashes being placed in a bag in the garage.

The public is reminded to use caution when disposing of ashes from grills and fire places. When disposing of the ashes from a fire place, fire pit or chimenea, place them in a metal container outside and away from your home. While the ashes may seem cool, they can retain heat for several days. Do not place the ashes in the trash until you are absolutely certain they are completely cold.