Working Smoke Alarm Alerts Residents of House Fire

One pet cat was found deceased, but 2 other cats, 2 rats and a dog survived. Logan the dog was transported for smoke inhalation. In keeping with the season, Keizer firefighters picked up the vet's bill.

The smoldering ruins of the house at 1973 Petty Grove Court NE in Keizer, Oregon. Photo courtesy: Rod Conway/Keizer Fire

(KEIZER, Ore.) - Keizer Fire crews responded to a house fire at 1973 Petty Grove Ct NE this morning just after 8:30 AM, where they found a garage at the residence engulfed in flames. Rod Conway with Keizer Fire says the first arriving firefighters reported heavy smoke and fire coming from the attached garage with fire spreading into the living area of the house.

A number of fire units responded along with 26 firefighters and Keizer's crews were assisted by the Marion County Fire District.

Before it was over, one Firefighter/Medic from Marion County Fire District #1 would be treated at Salem Hospital for a leg injury.

Conway says fire crews were on scene in 5 minutes and the fire was under control in 42 minutes, although fire crews remained on-scene for several hours to ventilate and investigate the fire.

The home is owned by Jeffrey & Tammy Cameron and is occupied by Julie O'Neill and Jeremy Free and two children; a 10-year old girl who was not home and a 6-year old boy, Conway said.

"Ms. O'Neill and two family friends who were asleep were awakened by a working smoke alarm and found heavy smoke and fire in the garage. Michael Schehr called 911, while Estaban Lyons attempted to extinguish the fire with a garden hose, while Ms. O'Neill woke up her 6 year old son and evacuated the home."

One pet cat was found deceased Conway said, but 2 other cats, 2 rats and a dog survived.

"Logan, a Chihuahua/Jack Russell mix the dog was transported to Willamette Valley Animal Hospital in Keizer for smoke inhalation," he added.

Fire and smoke damage to the house is estimated at $30,000 as the fire damaged the entire family room, the garage, destroyed a '76 Toyota Celica and smoke-damaged the entire house and contents, Conway said.

"The property owners do have the structure insured, but the occupants did not have renters insurance on the contents."

The fire is still under investigation at this time.

The Keizer Volunteer Firefighters Association will be paying the veterinarian bill for Logan's treatment at Willamette Valley Animal Hospital.