By David Fleet

Editor

Brandon Twp.-At 11:57 a.m., Nov. 21, the Brandon Fire Department responded to a 9-1-1 call to the
1800 block of Manorhaven Street for a structure fire. When firefighters arrived, smoke was coming from the front bedroom and the attached garage area.

Brandon Fire Chief David Kwapis said the homeowners were in the residence when the fire started.

“The home was never fully engulfed due to the firefighters’ response time,” he said “The fire started when a space heater was too close to a recliner. The homeowner attempted to extinguish the blaze with a garden hose; however, it was frozen. Also, a home fire extinguisher was not functional since it had not been serviced in many years. A neighbor also assisted, but they could not control the blaze.”

Two cats were in the home at the time of the fire. Brandon firefighters rescued one cat while the other escaped on its own without injury. The homeowner was treated at the scene for smoke inhalation.

“It’s the start of the heating season and homeowners should use caution with any type of supplemental heating needs with regards to the surroundings,” he said. “Please follow the rules of the heating appliance. There needs to be a minimum of 12 inches clearance around furniture and do not leave it unattended at any time.”

Groveland Township, Oxford, and Independence Township fire departments provided mutual aid.

“The fire was limited to the garage and bedroom,” said Kiwaps. “We appreciate the excellent mutual with our neighbors. Oxford (fire department) responded to a medical emergency near Sashabaw Road from station 2 and Independence (fire department) also assisted with a medical.”