At 0920hrs this morning Harris Hill Fire Company was alerted to a possible structure fire on Sheridan Drive. The 911 caller was from the second-floor apartment who reported smoke coming from the first floor apartment. Upon arrival, smoke was showing from the first floor and residents reported that the building was empty besides animals in the lower unit.
Forced entry was required to gain access to the lower unit where a dog was rescued before suffering from smoke inhalation. Crews advanced a hand line into the apartment to find a fire in the kitchen where it was quickly extinguished.
During the primary search, crews discovered a second pet, a hamster, in a closed bedroom directly adjacent to the kitchen. The closed bedroom door ensured the hamster's survival, serving as a great reminder of how beneficial it can be to shut bedroom doors at night or when leaving the house in case of a fire! The last two photos demonstrate the difference between an open and closed bedroom door in this same house.
Harris Hill was assisted by Main-Transit Fire Department, East Amherst Fire Department, Clarence Center Vol Fire Co. and Bowmansville Volunteer Fire Association along with Twin City Ambulance Corporation. The scene was turned over to the Erie County Sheriffs and Clarence Fire Inspector.