Staff Reports
ARTESIA – A structure fire caused by a welding mishap damaged a unique residence constructed from connected metal shipping containers and a tin shed south of Safford in the Artesia area on Saturday, Jan 31.
According to a Graham County Sheriff’s Office report, deputies were dispatched to a home on East Artesia Road around 3:43 p.m. after receiving a call about a structure fire with all occupants safely out of the building.
The Safford Fire Department responded and quickly extinguished the flames. The homeowner told deputies that the fire began while he was welding a bracket onto a box. The weld reportedly penetrated through the box, igniting a fire inside.
The man initially attempted to extinguish the blaze with water, but it damaged his water lines, making that method ineffective. He then used a fire extinguisher, but was unable to control the fire. His wife then called 911 for help at approximately 3:45 p.m.
The residence was described as being built from several metal conex (shipping) boxes attached to a tin shed, with wooden interior walls connecting the structures. Fire and smoke caused damage throughout the entire home.
Neither occupant reported injuries or requested medical attention for smoke inhalation. The man stated that he covered his face to avoid becoming lightheaded from smoke, while the woman said she was not near the fire and did not inhale significant smoke.
The man also informed officers that the property had no homeowner’s insurance.
Deputies photographed the scene and cleared without further action, classifying the fire as accidental based on the statements provided.
No additional injuries or spread to neighboring properties were reported.
Residents are reminded to exercise caution when welding or performing other hot work near flammable materials, and to ensure proper fire watches and equipment are in place to prevent such mishaps.
