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Fire takes firefighter’s home
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FarkThe home of a Custer volunteer firefighter was damaged in a fire that started early Monday when a laundry basket was left in front of an electric wall heater.
Custer fire chief Joel Behlings said crews were dispatched at 5:10 a.m. Monday to the Crook Street home of Justin and Ashlee Boggs. Justin Boggs is a firefighter with the department, and the home is just two blocks east of the Custer Fire Station, Behlings said.
When they arrived, firefighters saw heavy smoke coming from the home's second-story windows and roof. The fire was contained to the living room, but there was "substantial" heat and smoke damage throughout the home, Behlings said.
The couple was not at home at the time, and they and their two dogs and two cats were safe. The couple has insurance to cover damages to the home and their belongings, the fire chief said.
The Red Cross is providing food and clothing to the couple, who are staying with friends.
Richard Smith, executive director of the Black Hills Area Chapter of the American Red Cross, said people should be cautious about heating systems this time of year.
"We have seen an influx of home fires since the temperature has dropped and unfortunately can only expect more to come," Smith said. "Often times this type of disaster can be avoided by taking simple preventative measures like getting furnaces inspected or cleaning fireplaces."
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