Burnet home destroyed in fire

Amy Prayer

Highland Lake Newspapers

John Ballard, 48, of Burnet along with his female pit bull escaped his mobile home that caught fire Saturday, Feb. 25.

Burnet Fire Department (BFD) was alerted of the fire at 5:20 p.m., located at 101 Valley Drive in Burnet. When they arrived six minutes later Ballard's home was completely engulfed in flames and was a total loss.

“It only took three to four minutes for my house to burn from end to end,” said Ballard.

Although the fire was not out of control BFD called for assistance with water from Bertram and Cassie Volunteer Fire Departments who arrived with tankers.

With the help of 13-20 firefighters on scene firefighters were able to have the fire composed by 6:02 p.m.

During his investigation, Fire Marshal John Paul Erskine was able to find the source of the fire.

“The fire was ruled accidental caused by overheated extension cord powering a portable electric heater in the bathroom” said Erskine.

“Our firemen were able to have the fire completely extinguished by 8:54 p.m., using approximately 8,000 gallons of water.”

“There was no damage to any other structures. “No injuries or fatalities of any people of animals during this emergency, “Red Cross provided some basic assistance,” said Erskine.

Erskine has a fire safety message for all residents of the community.

“Remember when have nice weather it's still cool enough to run heaters, do not run portable heaters of extension cords.”