Smoking while removing nail polish blamed for Takoma Park apartment fire; 7 displaced

MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Md. (7News) — An accidental fire caused by someone smoking near nail polish remover in Takoma Park has displaced seven people and caused $90,000 in damage, according to Montgomery County Fire & Rescue Service.

The fire department posted about the fire at Birchwood Apartments in Kennebec Avenue, Takoma Park, just before 1 p.m. Friday.

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According to a spokesperson, the fire was started because someone was smoking while removing nail polish on their bed. The flammable remover ignited and set the mattress on fire. The person delayed calling for help because they tried to put out the fire themselves, according to MCFRS.

The fire service said the flames were quickly extinguished. Most residents sheltered in place; however, one person did exit through a ground-level window.

Seven people have been displaced, and the fire caused an estimated $90,000 in damage.