A fire that killed a Long Island, NY, man and critically injured his wife was caused by a faulty power cord, according to fire officials.

The early morning blaze originated in the den of the home, where a cord to an electric heater apparently malfunctioned, causing the fire, said Vincent McManus, division supervisor of the county fire marshal’s office. He said the investigation continues.

Cornell Adams, 70, was found by firefighters in a second-floor bedroom of his home. He was pronounced dead at a hospital.

His daughter, Camille Adams, 27, who was visiting, escaped, while Nassau police officers pulled his wife, Sarah Adams, 67, out of the burning home. She was being treated in hospital.

Fire is a leading cause of home fatalities. Take your safety training home with you and inspect regularly for fire hazards.

Source: Newsday, November 14, 2006