Following a two-story structure fire this morning (Feb. 7) at 10 Glenn Street, seven individualssix of them studentswere displaced. There were no significant injuries, but the house sustained heavy damage and is uninhabitable, according to fire officials.

Morgantown Fire Department was still on the scene mid morning monitoring the structure.

All seven were transported by WVU s Department of Public Safety to headquarters at the University Services Center, where several individuals were treated by Monongalia County EMS for smoke inhalation. All were given warm clothing, thermal blankets and provided other accommodations by emergency responders.

Temporary housing was offered, but all had alternative housing arrangements. Student Life officials will assist students with class notifications, supplies and other measures.

The cause of the fire is undetermined, but it is believed that one of the residents attempted to thaw a frozen water line earlier in the evening; however, the exact cause of the fire is undetermined. Fire officials believe it started in the basement apartment.

DPS and Environmental Health and Safety officials would like to remind students of some fire and cold weather safety tips as the season progresses:

To keep pipes from freezing:

• Wrap pipes in insulation; insulate all pipes exposed to wind, cold

• Open the base cabinet where the pipes are located. This will keep warmer air circulating around the pipes.

• Open the cold water faucet slightly. The flow of the trickling water will help prevent freezing. If the pipe is next to an outside wall, use warm water instead of cold.

If the pipes do freeze, follow these guidelines:

• Try to find out where the pipes are frozen.

• Open the faucet.

• Use a hair dryer rather than a device with an open flame.

• If you use an electric heater to unthaw the pipe, keep the heater at least three feet away from the open pipe and do not leave it unattended. No other type of heater should be used.

Other cold weather, fire prevention tips:

• Keep all areas clean and free of combustible material.

• Make sure smoke detectors are in working order.

• Leave the premises immediately if you detect trouble and call 9-11.

• Electric blankets should be turned off when not in use.