Firefighters say a family of four narrowly escaped with their lives Saturday, after discovering a fierce blaze inside their home.
Capt. Richard Bohn of the Cal Fire/Merced County Fire Department said 12 firefighters responded to the scene at the 1400 block of Eighth Street in Livingston around 4:15 a.m. Fortunately, no one was injured, Bohn said.
Bohn said the family, which was asleep, became alerted to the fire after the daughter was awakened by the sound of an exploding computer monitor. Bohn said a smoke alarm had went off, but none of the occupants heard it.
The firefighters, which included seven volunteers from Livingston, Cressey, Winton and Delhi, brought the blaze under control within 45 minutes. Bohn said the family stayed with relatives afterwards.
The family’s cat also escaped unscathed from the blaze, Bohn said.
The fire started in one of the home’s bedrooms and extended into the living room, Bohn said. Investigators said damage to the home is estimated at $40,000. The cause of the fire is believed to be electrical, possibly from an overloaded circuit, Bohn said.
Bohn said firefighters are reminding residents that smoke alarms should be placed in each bedroom, as well as the kitchen and other areas of the home. Each smoke alarm should be tested monthly, and the batteries should be changed every six months, Bohn said.
Story by Merced Sun Star
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