Fire destroys Polson home
<p><strong><em>Photo by Paul Fugleberg.</em></strong> Polson Fire works to extinguish the flames enfulfing a Polson home near Cherry Valley Elementary, Monday evening. According to Karen Sargeant, the smoke was so thick that firefighters had to wipe the smoke and soot off their face shields after being near the fire.</p>
POLSON - For one family, this Fourth of July ended with more of a bang than they bargained for.
Shortly before 9 p.m., Monday night, Polson dispatch was alerted to a house fire near Cherry Valley Elementary.
According to Information Officer for the Polson Fire Department, Karen Sargeant, when Polson Fire arrived on scene, they observed an actively burning structure fire producing black smoke. Firefighters extinguished the flames within ten minutes, Sargeant estimated.
But, according to her, within those few minutes the fire did about $100,000 in property damage - $90,000 in structural damages and $10,000 in personal property.
One of the resident's inhabitants told law enforcement that the fire stemmed from lit fireworks. The man said he was tying together several firework fuses when something sparked and ignited them, creating a small explosion.
That man was treated on scene for minor burns on his face and hands; no other injuries were reported.
According to Sargeant, the family residing in the home rented the space, and did not possess renter's insurance. The owner, however, is insured.
After the fire was put out, Red Cross representatives responded to assist the family.
Speaking after the fire, Sargeant cautioned local families to take care when handling fireworks.
"Be careful with fireworks," Sargeant said. "Even the most harmless can cause grief if not used properly. This was something that was accidental; fortunately it wasn't tragic."
In addition to Polson Fire, the Polson Police Department and Polson Ambulance also responded to the scene.