Salem Man Escapes Early Morning House Fire

The home owner said he had recently replaced the batteries in his smoke detectors.

(Salem) - Just after 5:30 AM Sunday, Russell Gardner was awakened by loud popping noises coming from the garage of his home located at 1885 21st St NE in Salem.

Salem Fire Deputy Fire Chief Joe Parrott says upon investigation Gardner found fire around the circuit breaker panel in the garage, extending up into the attic. He quickly called 9-1-1 and evacuated the home.

Firefighters responded with a second alarm bringing six fire engines and a ladder truck to the scene. The fire was brought under control quickly Parrott said.

Damage to the home is estimated at $35,000.

Gardner said the smoke detectors in the garage and inside the home activated.

The Salem Fire Department would like to remind everyone to check their smoke detectors often and replace batteries regularly