Smoke detectors credited with saving family from fire

June 25--SADSBURY TOWNSHIP -- "Smoke detectors definitely saved them," said John Treacy, deputy chief of Conneaut Lake Volunteer Fire Department, in regard to a Conneaut Lake area family who escaped a burning home early Wednesday morning.

The fire at the Chris Allen residence on West Townline Road was discovered shortly after 4 a.m., Treacy said.

"He (Chris Allen) said he woke up and saw the kitchen and dining room on fire," Treacy said. The Allens and their children all were able to get out safely, Treacy said.

The two-story home was engulfed in flames when firemen arrived on the scene, about three miles southwest of Conneaut Lake, according to Treacy. The home and its contents are considered a total loss, but the family did have insurance, Treacy said. No dollar loss estimate was made by the deputy chief.

A Pennsylvania State Police fire marshal has been contacted to investigate the cause, but it's not considered suspicious at this time, Treacy said. The fire is believed to have started in the kitchen and dining room area, he said.

While the home was gutted by fire, a detached garage and another pole-style building weren't damaged, Treacy said.

Conneaut Lake was assisted at the scene by Conneaut Lake Park, Summit Township, Fallowfield, Vernon Central and Greenwood Township volunteer fire departments and Conneaut Lake Area Ambulance Service and Conneaut Lake Regional Police Department.

The last fire units returned to service at 9 a.m.

Keith Gushard can be reached at 724-6370 or by email at [email protected].

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