TUMALO, Ore. — A Tumalo family of eight, along with their dog and cat, narrowly escaped a destructive fire that consumed their home late Monday night. The fire, which broke out around midnight, caused an estimated $1.4 million in damages, officials confirmed.

Bend Fire & Rescue responded swiftly to the scene, located in the 64000 block of Research Road. Fire Inspector Melissa Steele reported that the fire was first noticed by the family when their smoke alarms went off, alerting them to the danger. The family, consisting of a couple and their six children, as well as their pets, immediately evacuated the house.

One of the residents conducted a search of the home and discovered that the porch and the entire front exterior of the house were already engulfed in flames. The fire had spread into a second-floor bedroom and up into the attic, causing severe damage throughout the structure. Firefighters were able to contain the blaze within 45 minutes of their arrival.

According to Steele, the power had recently gone out in the neighborhood due to windy conditions, and the fire began shortly after the electricity was restored. Although the exact cause of the fire remains undetermined, officials have narrowed the origin of the blaze to the exterior wall of the front porch. While the cause has yet to be conclusively identified, authorities indicated that the fire appears to be accidental in nature.

“The fire could have had a far worse outcome, had it not been for the quick action of the family and the presence of working smoke alarms,” Steele stated. “We’re fortunate that no one was injured.”

In addition to the extensive damage to the home and its contents, which is estimated at $1.4 million, the family’s cat was safely reunited with them the following morning.

Bend Fire & Rescue is reminding residents of the importance of having a family escape plan in place, as well as regularly practicing it. A well-prepared family can significantly reduce the risks of injury in the event of a fire.

For more information on creating a family escape plan, residents are encouraged to contact Bend Fire & Rescue at 541-322-6300 or visit their website for helpful resources.