Detroit Lakes (trfnews.i234.me) — Becker County firefighters are investigating a garage fire near Detroit Lakes. The blaze left a home with heavy damage and killed one dog. Another dog was rescued.
The call came in at 2:58 p.m. on December 1. Crews arrived at an attached garage southeast of Detroit Lakes. They found flames fully involved in the garage area. No one was home when the fire started.
Two dogs were inside the garage. Firefighters pulled one dog out alive. They later found the second dog after the fire was out. That dog did not survive.
The fire chief says crews held the flames at the garage. The main living space did not burn. The home still took on heavy smoke and water damage. The family will need repairs before they can return.
Crews knocked down the main fire within about 15 minutes. They then checked for hot spots in the walls and attic. Firefighters also helped secure doors and windows after the fire.
The cause of the fire is not yet known. Investigators are looking at what started the blaze in the garage. No injuries to residents or firefighters were reported.
The Detroit Lakes Fire Department was first on scene. Frazee and Audubon fire departments sent extra crews and trucks. Officials say homeowners can find general guidance about what happens after a fire on state and national fire safety sites, including the National Fire Protection Association and local department pages.
Fire officials remind people to test smoke alarms often. They urge families to plan two ways out of every room. They also warn people to keep heaters clear of boxes, fuel, and other items that can burn.
Pet owners are asked to include animals in escape plans. Leashes and carriers should stay near doors so pets can leave quickly. National groups offer checklists, escape planning tools, and pet fire safety tips on their websites, including the American Red Cross.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.
