A fire that severely damaged a West Rutland home is being blamed on a malfunctioning power strip — and that's prompting a broader warning about the devices.
Officials with the Vermont Department of Public Safety Fire Investigation Unit say they've looked at several fires in the past year where a failed power strip device was found to be the likely cause.
Such a fire Sunday severely damaged the home of Tammy and George Mill. The family was away at the time.
Authorities say power strips should be used only in well-ventilated areas so too much heat doesn't build up. They also should not be used next to combustible material.
