Brought to you by WBIW News and Network Indiana
Last updated on Thursday, October 13, 2016
(BEDFORD) - The quick action and teamwork of the Bedford Fire Department saved an older home that caught fire Wednesday afternoon.
Firefighters were alerted to the blaze at 3:18 p.m. at 1309 N Street.
When firefighters arrived the rear of the older 2 1/2 half story home was on fire.
"The home was built in the 1890's or earlier," says says Bedford Fire Chief Jon Wagner. "We were short handed because some of the men were on an extrication run out in the county. But retired firefighter Kenny Teague and John Hughes who was off duty and lives in the area came to assist."
The fire started after the owner David Maldonado discarded a cigar butt outside near the rear of the home.
Maldonado suffered first and second degree burns to his hands when he attempted to put out the fire.
"A Seals ambulance was called to the scene after a family member notified firefighters that Mr. Maldonado had suffered burns to both hands," Chief Wagner says. "He refused to go to the hospital and was treated at the scene."
The fire started at the rear of the home, spread up an exterior wall then between the roof and the ceiling of an addition and into the attic, Chief Wagner says.
"There was no fire break or insulation to stop the fire from spreading," he added.
While firefighters battled the blaze, other firefighters including the chief, placed salvage covers over furniture and electronics inside the home to protect them from fire, smoke and water.
"Everyone did a great job and figured things out quickly," says Chief Wagner. "These older homes go up quick, but because of firefighter's actions the home was saved."
There was damage to the outside of the home and smoke and water damage inside.
1340 AM WBIW welcomes comments and suggestions by calling 812.277.1340 during normal business hours or by email at comments@wbiw.com
© Ad-Venture Media, Inc. All Rights Reserved.