The Cortland Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire in the city's Fifth Ward at 2:24 p.m. on March 1 after a neighbor contacted 911 to report smoke and flames coming from a residence's external electric meter.

Firefighters arrived within two minutes and discovered a single-family home with mild smoke and a little fire near the electric meter. Firefighters promptly used a portable fire extinguisher to put out the flames. Hose lines were stretched as a precaution as crews examined the inside for potential extensions.

Firefighters discovered no smoke or fire inside the home. Investigators discovered that the fire started on the outside and did not spread inside the home. National Grid secured electrical service at the scene. The City of Cortland Fire Investigation Team ruled the fire accidental. No injuries were reported, and units returned to service at 4:15 p.m.