Idaho home, church damaged in fire caused by space heater [Video]

Fire officials say a space heater was plugged into a power strip that failed, causing the blaze.

FRUITLAND, Idaho — A house fire early Monday morning caused significant damage to a home and a church in Fruitland, leading to the collapse of the church’s roof supports and rendering both structures unsafe, fire officials said.

Multiple fire departments, including units from Fruitland, Payette, Weiser, Ontario, New Plymouth, and Sand Hollow, responded to the blaze, according to the Idaho State Fire Marshal’s Office.

Investigators determined the fire originated from a “failed relocatable power tap” where a space heater was plugged in. The electrical device malfunctioned, quickly spreading flames to the residence and then extending to the Church of Christ building next door.

The Red Cross is assisting the home’s occupants with immediate needs.

The Fire Marshal’s Office also issued a warning for residents as temperatures drop: Space heaters should always be plugged …