Williston, ND (February 19, 2026) – Three people were transported to the hospital on Wednesday afternoon after a fire broke out inside a home on Sand Creek Dr, according to the Williston Fire Department. Crews responded to the 1600 block following reports of a basement bedroom fire. Several occupants were already evacuating when firefighters arrived.
Authorities said residents attempted to extinguish the flames using a portable fire extinguisher before crews reached the scene. Firefighters confirmed the blaze was fully extinguished and ventilated the home to remove smoke. Three individuals were taken to CHI St. Alexius – Williston Medical Center for treatment of smoke inhalation, while three others drove themselves to the hospital. The fire was determined to be accidental and was reportedly caused by an electronic device left charging on a bed. Officials noted that working smoke detectors and quick action helped reduce the extent of damage and injuries.
Key Details
- Reported: February 18 at 1 p.m.
- Location: 1600 block of Sand Creek Dr, Williston
- Incident Type: Residential structure fire
- Injuries: Six people sought medical care; three were treated for smoke inhalation
- Cause: Accidental; electronic device left charging on a bed
- Responding Agency: Williston Fire Department
What We Know So Far
- Firefighters were dispatched to reports of a basement bedroom fire.
- Occupants were evacuating upon the crews’ arrival.
- Residents attempted to put out the fire with an extinguisher.
- Three people were transported for smoke inhalation treatment.
- The fire was determined to be accidental.
What’s Not Yet Confirmed
- The total estimated cost of property damage.
- How long the home may be uninhabitable.
- Whether additional inspections will be required.
- If any further safety recommendations will be issued.
Local context
The 1600 block of Sand Creek Dr is part of a residential area in Williston where single-family homes are situated along neighborhood streets. In situations like a basement bedroom fire, smoke can quickly spread upward through living spaces, making early detection critical. The Williston Fire Department’s response focused on confirming the fire was fully out and clearing smoke from the structure to prevent further harm. Officials emphasized that working smoke detectors and the presence of a fire extinguisher helped limit injuries and property loss. The department also reminded residents to avoid placing charging electronic devices on beds or near combustible materials and to unplug them once fully charged.
What to Do Next
- If you are involved in a home fire, evacuate immediately and call 911 from a safe location.
- Follow directions from emergency personnel and do not re-enter the structure until it is declared safe.
- Document visible damage with photos once authorities say it is safe to do so.
- Monitor for symptoms such as coughing, dizziness, or shortness of breath and seek medical attention if they develop.
FAQ
Q: Why are details sometimes limited right after a fire?
A: Initial information may be preliminary while investigators confirm the cause, assess damage, and gather statements from those involved.
Q: What are common causes of residential fires involving electronics?
A: Fires can occur when devices overheat, are left charging too long, or are placed on combustible materials such as bedding or upholstered furniture.
Q: Do emergency crews always transport injured people to the hospital?
A: Not always. Some individuals may be evaluated on scene, while others may seek medical care on their own, depending on the severity of symptoms.
Source
Read the original coverage here: original report.
