GILBERT, AZ — Gilbert fire officials say a house fire overnight was likely caused by July 4th fireworks.
Crews were called to a home near Williams Field Road and Val Vista Drive around midnight after a family woke up to their smoke detectors going off and a smell of smoke. They exited the home and found the side of their house was on fire and spreading to other parts of the home.
Deputy Chief Mark Justus with Gilbert Fire says this can happen to anybody.
"They went to bed without a concern," he added.
The family was too distraught to go on camera, though they told ABC15 and officials, they celebrated 4th of July with their children and set off legal fireworks.
Gilbert fire officials say one of the family's dogs was located inside the home and passed away.
Fire crews put out the fire and say it appears that fireworks, which the family disposed of in a trash can near their home, reignited and flames spread up the wall of the house.
Officials say the family reportedly soaked their used fireworks in a bucket for about an hour before putting them in the trash.
Fire officials say it's suggested to soak used fireworks in a bucket of water for 24 hours before throwing them away.
