Jefferson Home Damaged by Fire

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Salem-News.com

(JEFFERSON, Ore. ) - Jefferson firefighters respond to a house fire at 453 Huron Court in Jefferson Tuesday evening.

The homeowner, Ynette Defehr arrived home, opened her garage door and noticed smoke. She felt the hot door handle that led into the house and knew she should not open the door. She immediately vacated and called 911. She saw flames through the living room window.

Neighbors Jake Trefethen and Jim Headley attempted to extinguish the fire with a garden hose. This did put them in danger said Captain John O'Neil, but their quick action did make a difference. Fire officers deemed the homeowner lucky as this fire could have easily destroyed the entire house.

The fire started in the living room and burned through the floor and up the wall. Using a thermal imaging camera, firefighters determined that the fire did not extend into the attic or spread within the walls. The ignition source is yet to be determined.

The damage to the house and contents is estimated at $40,000 and the home is insured.

Twenty three fire personnel responded with two fire engines, an ambulance, and three support vehicles.

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