A fire at the Element at Carolina Bay Apartments in West Ashley, Charleston, was quickly contained by the building’s sprinkler system on Friday evening, January 23, 2026. No injuries occurred, and the unoccupied bedroom where it started saw minimal damage thanks to the sprinklers.
Incident Details
Charleston Fire Department crews responded just before 7 p.m. to an automatic sprinkler activation. Fire marshals traced the origin to a mattress, where remnants of an electric blanket were found amid the debris.
The exact cause remains under investigation, highlighting common risks with such devices like overheating or faulty wiring. This event underscores the value of modern fire suppression systems in multi-unit housing.
Local Context
West Ashley, part of Charleston’s growing suburbs, has seen recent fire activity, including a January structure fire on Mepkin Road displacing residents. Apartment complexes like Element Carolina Bay (at 1500 Parklawn Dr.) emphasize amenities but rely on safety features like sprinklers to protect tenants.
Safety tip: Inspect electric blankets regularly for frays or wear, unplug when not in use, and never leave them on unattended—especially relevant in rental properties amid Charleston’s variable coastal weather.
