Walnut Street fire ruled accidental
PUTNAM — A structure fire that that badly damaged a Walnut St. home has been ruled accidental, according to the Fire Marshal’s Office. Oct. 11 the homeowner at 225 Walnut St. called 911-Quinebaug Valley Emergency Communications stating that his house was on fire.  The East Putnam Fire Department was dispatched with first alarm mutual aid companies.  The homeowner tried to put out the fire using a garden hose but the fire had extended to the soffits and attic.  
The first arriving East Putnam fire officer reported smoke showing from the roof area of the single-family cape-style residence and fire quickly involved the second floor and attic space.   Firefighters were able to hold the fire to the building of origin without damage to outbuildings or neighboring houses.
The Fire Marshal’s Office the fire started at the rear exterior of the home where the homeowner had been using an outdoor propane cooker unattended.  Nearby combustibles had ignited with fire impinging on a 20-pound propane cylinder to the point the relief valve activated and ignited the rear exterior siding of the building.
There were no injuries to firefighters; however, the homeowner was evaluated by   Putnam EMS  for superficial burns to his face and forehead.  Fire damage to the roof and second floor of the structure is significant with the remainder suffering extensive smoke and water damage.  If anyone has information concerning this fire or any other fire incident, to call the Putnam Fire Marshal’s Office at (860) 963-6800 ext112.

.