A double-wide modular home was destroyed by fire Monday evening in the Beaver Dam Estates area between Panaca and Caliente.
Panaca Fire Chief Kerry Lee reported the fire was at the home of a “Mr. Barnett,” believed to be in his 80’s.
Lee said the fire was reported about 6:55 p.m. Barnett said he “heard a couple of pops in the living room and when he went to investigate, found the room filled with smoke.”
Barnett was helped to escape the fire by a grandson, who was also living with him. Cause of the fire is believed to be electrical in the living room area.
The Caliente Fire Department responded with two engines, and Panaca brought three engines. The Panaca and Caliente ambulances also responded, and County District Fire Chief Rick Stever brought the County Fire District water tender, and the City of Caliente brought theirs as well. Lee said “Being where there were no fire hydrants in the area, having the tenders on hand really helped.”
Barnett was taken to Grover C. Dills Hospital for observation and was treated and released.
Lee said, “The home was fully involved when we arrived, but we had lots of help, and it was really good to have all the departments cooperating like that.”
