A resident was flown to Indianapolis for treatment of burn injuries following a house fire in South Bend late Monday night, October 12.
According to the South Bend Fire Department, crews were dispatched just before midnight to the 1300 block of College Street for a residential structure fire.
When firefighters arrived, they found flames coming from the rear of the home and the backyard, along with fire inside the residence. All residents had made it outside before crews arrived.
Firefighters began searching the home and fighting the fire, bringing it under control in approximately 40 minutes.
One resident was taken to Memorial Hospital for treatment of burn injuries before being flown to Indianapolis for further care. No other injuries were reported.
During the response, firefighters rescued one dog from inside the home. A second dog was found deceased.
Fire investigators determined that a generator caused the fire. Heat and flames also caused a nearby power line to fall.
Following the fire, the South Bend Fire Department shared several reminders for residents using generators:
Keep generators outdoors. Operate them in well-ventilated areas at least 20 feet away from doors, windows and vents.
Never operate generators indoors. This includes attached garages, even when doors or windows are open.
Allow generators to cool before refueling. Always turn them off and never add fuel while the generator is hot.
Keep generators away from combustible materials.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe operation.
Maintain working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms inside your home.