Working smoke alarms are being credited with saving nine people from a fire at a Benton Harbor group home early Tuesday morning.
Benton Harbor Department of Public Safety officers were called around 5 a.m. to the 800 block of Pearl Street and found heavy smoke throughout the home and a fire contained to a basement bedroom. Department officials say the blaze started when a candle was knocked over onto a bed.
Officials say all nine residents were able to escape safely thanks to working smoke alarms.
Benton Charter Township Fire Department, St. Joseph Public Safety, and Lincoln Township firefighters provided mutual aid, while Medic 1 Ambulance also assisted on scene.
Officials used the incident as an example of the importance of having functioning smoke detectors. Through a partnership with MI Prevention, local fire departments can provide free smoke and carbon monoxide alarms to area residents.
Image credit: Benton Harbor Department of Public Safety.
