Officials Respond to Structure Fire at Payton Landing Apartments
Dryer Fire Contained, No Injuries Reported
Bowling Green, KY – Fire units successfully extinguished a structure fire early this morning at the Payton Landing Apartments on Scottsville Road, with fire officials crediting quick response times and alert residents with preventing the fire from spreading outside the single affected unit.
According to local fire department officials, the call came in just before 9 a.m., prompting a multi-unit response from Bowling Green, Alvaton, and Plano Fire Departments. Upon arrival, firefighters encountered a dryer filled with burning clothes still plugged into the outlet.
Quick Thinking Prevents Fire Spread
Discovered by the apartment’s resident, Chandra Cobb, the fire was contained primarily within the dryer unit which firefighters were able to safely remove from the building and extinguish. “After I discovered the clothes in the dryer were smoking, I quickly shut the door and unplugged the unit,” Cobb explained. “When I saw the flames, I didn’t waste any time in calling the fire department.”
Her keen eye and quick response time might have saved the entire building from catastrophe. “It was a harrowing experience,” admits Cobb. “But I’m glad we managed to prevent it from escalating.”
Cobb suspects that an accidental running of the dryer might have caused the fire, although a full investigation into the blaze is still underway.
A Close Encounter
According to the testimony, Cobb’s son was present in the apartment during the fire but managed to safely evacuate after becoming aware of the smoke. He, too, had the presence of mind to dial 911 and alert emergency services in a timely manner.
The flames were ultimately contained to the dryer only, with minimal collateral damage to the surrounding environment. A sigh of relief was palpable among the gathered crowd of onlookers as it became apparent there would be no casualties.
Fire Safety Reminder
Captain Cameron Wallace of the Plano Fire Department used this incident as a teaching moment to remind others of fire safety, particularly about the use of appliances like dryers. He advised, “It’s always important to be present when using these appliances. Regular maintenance can also prevent such incidents, as can remembering to clean out the lint after every cycle.”
Wallace praised the quick response from residents and teamwork from surrounding fire departments in minimizing damage and potential injuries from the event.
This incident serves as a critical reminder of the potential dangers that seemingly innocuous household appliances can possess if not properly maintained and used correctly. Residents across Bowling Green are grateful the outcome was not more severe, with many now taking the time to review their own fire safety measures and practices.
