An off-duty firefighter rescued a resident and their pet from a burning home last week, according to a report issued by the Galax Volunteer Fire Department.
At 9:25 a.m. that day, Peyton Walker was traveling through the 100 block of Matthews Street in Galax when he noticed smoke.
He searched the area further and discovered a house with heavy smoke coming from the attic, the report said. Walker immediately contacted dispatch and then spoke with the resident, ushering them out of the home, along with their pet dog.
According to Galax Fire Chief Mike Ayers, the resident did not know the attic was on fire.
The GVFD responded and put out the blaze in a 40-minute effort. American Electric Power disconnected the electricity to assist the firefighters. The fire is suspected to be due to an electrical issue in the attic.
Unfortunately, the house was severely damaged as a result of the fire and the resident was displaced; the Red Cross is assisting them.
No injuries were reported.
“It was a fantastic job by all responders,” said Ayers. “They held the fire in check and did a wonderful job. I’m proud of them.”