Adams Family Credits Dog With Fire Warning

ADAMS, Mass. — The Adams Fire Department extinguished a fire on Apremont Street after, according to the owner, the family dog warned the family of the blaze.

Fire Chief Paul Goyette said Monday afternoon firefighters responded to a structure fire on 15 Apremont St.

Goyette said nearly 50 percent of the attic was damaged, however, smoke alarms were activated and everyone got out safely.

"We knocked down the fire within 15 minutes then we cleaned it out and salvaged a lot of their belongings for them," Goyette said. "It was a very good stop, and all parties involved work together for a good outcome."

He added that salvage blankets were used to save much of the furniture in the home.

According to a post on Pooches Dog Grooming's Facebook, Levi the dog warned owner Karen Frietag of the fire and the family was able to escape the blaze.

Pooches Dog Grooming, located on Eagle Street, is accepting donations to help the family.

Goyette could not confirm if the dog did actually alert the family, but said in most cases the smoke alarms go off and alert dogs.

Goyette added that a North Adams engine helped extinguish the fire and the Cheshire Fire Department covered the Adams station.

He said the cause of the fire is under investigation.