Burning Trash Can Evacuates Salem Hotel

Salem-News.com

(SALEM) - The Salem Fire Department responded to a report of a burning trash can in a guest room at the Marriott Hotel at 640 Hawthorne SE just before 1:00 PM on Wednesday.

Arriving firefighters reported light smoke throughout the 3rd floor of the structure.

Firefighters quickly removed the melting trash can and performed positive pressure ventilation in the structure.

Salem Fire Capt. Wayne Ayars said that three guests and nine staff members evacuated the building.

An investigation determined that a hotel guest emptied a cigarette ashtray into a plastic trash can, which also contained combustible materials.

The damage and smoke to the building and contents was minimal.