A malfunctioning oil burner is the cause of the fire at 126 Clay St. in Tamaqua Saturday,

Tamaqua Fire Chief James Connely said

“The oil burner was malfunctioning due to improper maintenance,” he said.

The entire Tamaqua Fire Department responded to the working basement fire that was under control in 15 minutes and out in 40. The fire was mostly contained to the basement with an extension in a first floor wall. He estimated damages at $10,000. He did not see any working smoke detectors.

Connely said the home is rented by Robert and Emily Rossi and a child. Emily Rossi was home with three dogs at the time of the fire. Connely said she “heard a loud pop in the basement and called her husband.” By the time he arrived home, smoke filled the home. Connely said the couple does not have renters insurance.

They are staying with relatives. No one was injured, he said.

Homes at 124 and 128 Clay St. were evacuated as a precaution. Occupants were permitted to return.

Responding to the scene along with the Tamaqua Fire Department was the Tamaqua Rescue Squad, Tamaqua Police Department and Carbon County Rapid Intervention Team.