ROCKLAND – Rockland Fire Department urges people to be aware of what’s in and around their cooking ovens following two separate fire calls in three days.

According to Rockland Fire Chief Chris Whytock, a household in Rockland went to bed Friday night, December 17, 2021 after storing pizza boxes in their oven. By the next morning, the boxes had been forgotten, and the oven turned on for breakfast. Occupants became aware of the ensuing oven fire when smoke started blowing from the appliance. The fire remained within the oven, and all mutual aid was released from the call prior to arrival on scene.

Monday morning, December 20, Rockland FD was called to a different house where a one-cup coffee brewer had been placed on a cook stove. The plastic base melted, filling the residence with smoke. Rockland firefighters brought in fans to assist with ventilating the building.

Whytock reminds the public to pay attention and be aware of the combustibles that may be within reach.