LEWISTON – A fire on Christmas Eve is never good, however it could have been much worse for a Lewiston Family and being called a Christmas Miracle.

The fire on at 327 Webber Ave was reported at 2:00 on Friday morning, reportedly caused by a improperly disposed of oil based staining rags in a trash bag that spontaneously combusted in a second floor attic bedroom that was being renovated.

The family was able to escape with the family dog in their vehicle where they stayed warm on a 14 degree night.

The fire has a happy ending however.  Lewiston Fire Inspector Paul Ouellette Told the Sun Journal:

“Yes, a fire on Christmas Eve is very sad to happen to anyone, However, this one had a happier ending. The Christmas gifts were saved — covered and protected from any damages by the firefighters. The fire was contained to that one room with no further damage to the rest of the structure, except for some water leaking into the living room and one first floor bedroom ceiling areas directly below the above fire area.  Partial power was restored to the house, to include heat and hot water and the refrigerator,  No injuries were reported. The home owner discovered the fire and got everyone out, including the pet dog, safely. They are insured. The Red Cross was called in to assist while some repairs are made to the home to make it livable again.”

Fire crews had the blaze knocked down in less than an hour, and when the smoke cleared, there were some silver linings to be found within the ashes.

The people who live in the home were expected to be able to return.