Faulty Electric Blanket Blamed for Destroying Maine House

No one was home when the fire broke out late Thursday morning in Lisbon, Maine.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Investigators believe a malfunctioning electric blanket caused a house fire that destroyed a home in Lisbon, Maine on Thursday. The fire broke out late in the morning and was quickly extinguished by firefighters, but the home suffered extensive damage and is considered a total loss.

Why it matters

House fires caused by faulty electrical equipment like electric blankets are a common occurrence, highlighting the importance of proper maintenance and safety precautions when using these devices, especially in the winter months when their use is more prevalent.

The details

The fire originated on a mattress in a bedroom and investigators determined the cause was a malfunction of an electric blanket. No one was home at the time of the fire, which was reported by a neighbor who saw flames on the left front side of the house and smoke filling the structure.

  • The fire broke out around 10 a.m. on Thursday, February 20, 2026.
  • Firefighters responded quickly and extinguished the blaze.

The players

State Fire Marshal's Office

The state agency that is assisting with the investigation into the cause of the fire.

Neighbor

The person who called 911 to report seeing flames and smoke coming from the house.

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What’s next

Investigators will continue to examine the scene and electric blanket to determine the exact cause of the malfunction that led to the fire.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a reminder for homeowners to regularly inspect their electrical devices, especially those used for heating, and replace any that show signs of wear or potential issues to help prevent devastating house fires.