The phrase "a fire was started" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the initiation of a fire, whether accidental or intentional.
Example: "After the storm passed, it was discovered that a fire was started in the dry brush, threatening nearby homes."
Alternatives: "a fire was ignited" or "a fire was set."
The 20-metre fishing boat sank after capsizing when a fire was started on board to attract attention.
Imagine the media storm if the council housed a convicted arsonist in a block of flats and a fire was started and someone was injured.
"While the incident is still under investigation and details are sparse, what we do know is after the break-in, mementos were gathered and a fire was started in the chapel," Ms. Parvizi wrote.
Police are investigating an arson incident in Weymouth after a fire was started at a Christian centre.
After the declaration of the first round's official results, a fire was started in storage buildings at Mr Shafiq's campaign headquarters in Cairo.
Mr Heath, 52, became trapped in his flat after a fire was started in a wheelie bin pushed into the porch.
"We were not prepared to stand idly by whilst a fire was starting in the house" – Joe Hockey, May 2014 "This is our first budget, I understand the concerns people have, I fully understand them, but what is our alternative?
If a fire is started or has been started, do not touch the grill, as it is hot and can severely burn you.
When sirens occurs, some people will think a fire is started or the enemy is coming or even someone is hurt.
May what I say reach many people and may their hearts inwardly digest and console them to a point where a fire is started in their souls for Christ Jesus.
But due to a harsh reentry and the premature separation of the heat shield a fire is starting inside the capsule.
