Medina County, TX — Working smoke detectors helped a homeowner escape safely after a house caught fire shortly after 2 a.m. Monday, according to local fire officials.
Medina County 911 received a call from the homeowner reporting his house was on fire. Officials said the resident was awakened by smoke detectors as the home quickly filled with smoke and was able to make his way outside.
Firefighters from Devine Station 20 and Natalia Volunteer Fire Department Station 50 were dispatched to the scene.
A Medina County Sheriff's Office deputy who heard the call while on patrol also responded and spotted flames in a back room. The deputy retrieved a fire extinguisher and discharged it into the room, helping slow the spread of the fire before firefighters arrived.
Engine 8120 arrived within eight minutes of dispatch, followed by M8140, with crews reporting heavy smoke coming from the residence.
The deputy directed firefighters to the area where flames had been seen. An Engine 20 crew entered the home with an attack line, located the fire in a closet area of a rear bedroom and quickly extinguished it.
Officials said the fire was brought under control within 15 minutes of the initial dispatch, preventing further damage to the home. Engine 8150 also responded and assisted at the scene.
Fire officials credited the working smoke detectors with giving the homeowner time to escape and said the deputy's actions helped slow the fire until firefighters arrived.
SAFETY REMINDER: Working smoke detectors can provide critical warning during a house fire, especially while residents are sleeping. Test alarms regularly and make sure they are functioning throughout your home.
