October 1 - When a smoke alarm sounded early this morning at a residence on Ginger Ave. in Fontana, the sleeping family of four immediately went into action and quickly exited the home to safety.

The fire, which started in the garage, burned into the attic, quickly spreading the fire throughout the 2,000 square foot, single-family residence. Estimated at 10 MPH, winds were a factor in the spread of the fire.

When firefighters arrived on scene, the home was engulfed in flames. Firefighters were able to extinguish the fire in about 40 minutes; unfortunately the fire had already consumed the home. With a quick response, firefighters were able to keep the fire from spreading to an adjacent home. Firefighters were able to rescue four kittens from inside the home before the blaze completely destroyed the residence.

The fire was caused by an active dryer located in the garage. No injuries were sustained. Damage is estimated at $450,000.

Eighty-two percent of all fire deaths occur in the home. Having a working smoke alarm reduces one’s chances of dying in a fire by nearly a half. To learn more about fire alarms and escape route planning, visit our website at www.sbcfire.org or the U.S. Fire Administration site at www.usfa.dhs.gov.