Firefighters rescue elderly resident and pets in Madras house fire

MADRAS, Ore. (KTVZ) - A family in Madras safely escaped a house fire Saturday morning thanks to the quick response of Jefferson County Fire & EMS crews.

Firefighters were called to 964 Southwest Second Street just after 10:40 a.m. after reports of smoke coming from the home. Crews arrived to find heavy smoke pouring from the eaves and vents. They helped the family safely evacuate an elderly occupant and several pets before attacking the flames from both inside the home and the roof.

One resident was taken to St. Charles Madras for smoke exposure. No other injuries were reported.

Investigators determined the fire started from a debris burn too close to the home, which spread to the siding and into the attic. Fire officials are reminding community members to keep debris burns a safe distance from structures and never leave them unattended.

Jefferson County Fire & EMS received support from volunteer firefighters, interns, and officers with the Madras Police Department and Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office.