Cape Coral firefighters respond to back-to-back house fires Sunday night

Cape Coral firefighters responded to back-to-back residential fires on Sunday night, prompting a reminder of important safety tips.

According to the Cape Coral Fire Department, the first fire that crews responded to was caused by a candle left burning in a bathroom. The fire was limited primarily to smoke damage, and firefighters were able to ventilate the apartment.

No injuries were reported in the first fire, and the residents were able to remain in their home. CCFD said the fire serves as a reminder to always extinguish candles before leaving a room or going to bed, and to never leave a burning candle unattended.

The second fire crews responded to was caused by items being stored on a stovetop, CCFD said. Crews responded to the home to find that the new occupants of the home had placed belongings on the stove while moving in, and a faulty burner unexpectedly turned on, setting the items ablaze.

CCFD said no one was home at the time, and there were no injuries. Firefighters said it serves as a reminder to keep stovetops clear of anything that can burn, even when it's not in use.