Fire Departments responded to local structure fire over weekend

February 4, 2021 · 0 Comments

Written By Paula Brown

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Fire Departments in the region were called to a fire at the home of an elderly couple in Melanchthon this past Sunday (Jan. 31).

The fire, which broke out at a home located on 5th Line in Melanchthon, was first noticed by neighbours and friends who saw the smoke and rushed to assist the elderly couple out of the house before the fire spread.

Shelburne Fire Chief Ralph Snyder commended the actions of the neighbours.

Snyder said the cause of the fire is undetermined at this time, but is suspect to have started in the area of the chimney from a wood stove.

Damage to the house was extensive.

There were working smoke alarms.

Fire officials are reminding community members to have all chimneys cleaned and inspected as well as clearing the fire hydrant nearest to your home so firefighters can get access to water fast.

A GoFund Me has now been set up by the elderly couple’s granddaughter, Jamie Pate.

Pate said the home has been burnt beyond repair and will need to be torn down and rebuilt

“Any money raised would be going toward expenses caused by the fire, clothing, gas to make it to appointments and money toward rebuilding the house or finding a new home that works best for their situation,” said Pate. “We appreciate everything, in a tough time for everyone.”

At the time of print, the GoFundMe raised just over $2,000 with the goal of raising $10,000.

To donate, visit https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-my-grandparents-after-a-devastating-fire