Neighbors Help Extinguish Fire in West Side Apartment

A neighbor is credited for putting out a fire in a far west side apartment complex Friday afternoon after hearing cries for help inside a nearby unit.

The Madison Fire Department was called to Rustic Point Lane at 3:23 PM Friday for a report of fire. 

Occupants were evacuating the building upon Engine 12’s arrival, and one person directed firefighters to the affected unit. This individual reported hearing a neighbor screaming for help. They entered the apartment and learned there was a fire in the kitchen. This individual's roommate then grabbed two fire extinguishers from the hallway.

Meanwhile, the occupant of the fire unit threw a fire extinguishing blanket onto the stovetop, which kept flames contained. The neighbors then deployed two fire extinguishers to put out the fire. Firefighters entered the unit shortly thereafter and applied water to ensure the fire was extinguished and to cool down the areas where the fire occurred.

Paramedics treated the occupant for minor fire-related injuries. Damage was contained to the stovetop and microwave directly above the stove. Investigators determined the fire was unintentional.