Early morning structure fire contained to exterior of Madras home, all occupants safe

MADRAS, ORE. (KTVZ) -- Jefferson County Fire & EMS crews responded to a structure fire at a single-family home in the 600 block of NE Chapel Street in Madras, Ore., early on Monday, April 27th.

The fire, caused by a debris pile that had smoldered overnight, was contained to the home's exterior and no injuries were reported after all occupants safely evacuated.

Firefighters arrived at approximately 7:14 a.m. to find the exterior side of the residence on fire.

Crews quickly deployed a hose line and performed an initial attack, bringing the flames under control and extinguishing the fire before it could spread further inside the home.

The smoldering debris from the previous night ignited the side of the home the following morning.

After extinguishing the fire, crews conducted overhaul operations and checked for any extension into the structure. Madras Police Department and the Jefferson County Sheriff Office assisted at the scene.

Following the incident, fire personnel spoke with the residents about safe burning practices. Jefferson County Fire & EMS reminds the public to obtain a valid and free burn permit, burn only approved materials and avoid trash, maintain adequate clearance from structures and other combustibles and ensure fires are completely extinguished before leaving them unattended or at the end of the day.

The fire report was completed by Interim Chief Kasey Skaar.