INDIANOLA — Investigators are fairly certain that the May 7 house fire was accidental and not suspicious in nature, according to North Kitsap Fire & Rescue spokeswoman Michele Laboda. An exact cause hasn’t been determined but investigators have narrowed down the possible sources of the fast-moving fire that burned a man and displaced a family.

The injured man has been released from the hospital, but will continue to receive treatment for serious burns.

Although the cause is officially undetermined, it appears as though the blaze originated with an electrical problem and grew rapidly once air was introduced into the garage through an opened door. Fire extinguishers were present, however access to them was blocked with fire by the time the blaze was discovered.

Officials recommend that occupants keep fire extinguishers near exit doors to ensure that the devices can be easily and safely accessed. They urge the public to call 911 immediately upon discovery of a fire, to get crews on their way quickly. Open doors and windows speed fire growth by providing air to the flames. Officials say that doors should be closed behind evacuating occupants and kept closed to slow fire growth.

“Most folks don’t think of these things in advance,” Laboda said. “But they can make a real difference, in the event of a fire.”

The rental house was insured. The family did not have renter’s insurance so there is no coverage for the possessions lost or damaged in the fire.  They are in temporary housing.

There were no other injuries to firefighters or civilians.