Pets Lost but Family Safe After Salem House Fire

The residents were not injured, one cat died in the fire and two others remain unaccounted for.

Photo: Paula Smith / Marion County Fire District #1

(SALEM, Ore.) - Marion County Fire District No. 1 was dispatched to a residential structure fire at 5:08 a.m. this morning at 4200 block of Barbara Way NE.

Fire Marshal Paula Smith with Marion County Fire, says the single-family residence was fully involved upon arrival with flames and smoke showing from the front of the home.

"The homeowner and her teenage son were home sleeping when the fire broke out. The homeowner awoke when she heard noises toward the front of the house and went to investigate."

Smith says she reported seeing an orange glow near the front door and opened it to find the front porch and exterior wall in flames.

"Initially, she attempted to extinguish the blaze with a garden hose but found that the hose had become frozen by the recent cold weather."

She says both the homeowner and her son escaped safely.

"Four household cats were also inside the residence at the time of the fire. One cat was found alive and well during the fire investigation this afternoon."

One cat died in the fire and two others remain unaccounted for, according to Smith.

"Damage to the home was significant. The home was insured and the residents are being assisted by The Red Cross."

The cause of the fire has not yet been determined and remains under investigation, Smith said. "Marion County Fire District urges residents to dial 911 immediately and not to attempt to extinguish a fire yourself. Have an emergency plan in place for your family and for your pets in the event of a fire."