A family of eight and their dog escaped a house fire early this morning thanks to working smoke alarms. The fire broke out at 64420 Research Rd, in Tumalo, at 12:00am Tuesday morning. Building and contents are a total loss from fire and smoke damage, estimated at approx. $1.4 million.
“A couple and their six children, plus their dog, were awaken by their smoke alarms and were able to escape the blaze,” according to a Bend Fire Rescue news release. “Once they heard the alarms, the resident searched the house and saw their porch and the entire front exterior of their house on fire.”
The fire extended into the second floor bedroom and into the attic. Crew were able to contain the fire in about 45 minutes. The power had recently been out in the neighborhood and the fire broke out shortly after the power was restored. The fire is under investigation at this time.
“This could have been a completely different outcome, had the family not had working smoke alarms.”
Bend Fire & Rescue would like to remind residents that having a family escape plan, and practicing it often, is crucial in a safe evacuation from a house fire.
For tips on how to create a family escape plan, please call Bend Fire at 541-322-6300 or go to the city’s website.
