WARRENSBURG, MO (KCTV) -
A woman smoking fell asleep near oxygen tanks and delayed calling 911 as she tried to douse the flames with water, authorities said Tuesday.
Warrensburg Fire Department and other agencies responded to the fire at 405 Jefferson St. at 10:12 p.m. Monday. The three-story building had been converted to four apartments with two residents each.
Flames were leaping from the roof and windows. The blaze was fueled by the oxygen tanks in the woman's apartment, Warrensburg fire Department spokesman said in a news release. Firefighters successfully battled to keep the flames spreading to nearby structures.
After falling asleep while smoking, the woman woke up to flames around her.
"The occupant woke up and found flames burning next to her," according to the news release. "She reportedly attempting to extinguish the flames by pouring water on them. Fire investigators believe the delay in reporting the fire contributed to the extensive flames that were present when the first police and fire units arrived at the scene. Oxygen cylinders were exploding and producing metal projectiles that posed a risk of serious injury to bystanders."
Three Warrensburg firefighters were treated and released from a Warrensburg hospital. Two firefighters suffered minor ankle sprains on the uneven terrain. The third firefighter suffered a medical condition that was worsened by the heat and exertion he endured while battling the fire.
The American Red Cross is assisting those left homeless.
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