Milford Firefighter Kevin Walker uses the saw to cut a hole in the roof, with Firefighter Troy Haines helping to steady Walker on the roof. (Photos by Deb Patterson)

MILFORD — The fire at the Thomas Penrod home at 404 W. Catherine St., Milford, Saturday, Dec. 17, appears to be electrical in nature, according to Milford Fire Chief Todd Haines. The fire department, with manpower assistance from Plain Township, was called to the home at approximately 1:25 p.m.

Haines reported the fire damage was contained to the bathroom/laundry and kitchen area of the home, with very little smoke throughout the rest of the residence. The fire started in the ceiling and traveled down one of the walls.

Members of the Thomas Penrod family were home at the time and were able to leave the residence unharmed. The American Red Cross was contacted to provide temporary housing. Two cats were also unharmed.

The home is owned by Leigh Anne Jessop. Damage has been estimated around $10,000. Firefighters were at the scene until approximately 3 p.m.

Haines reported the Penrods were doing laundry and had clothing in the washing machine. Upon checking the washer, when they thought clothes should be done, they found it was not working and a breaker tripped. At the same time the furnace started and it is believed the cold air returns pulled the smoke from the fire into the home, alerting the residents of the fire.

Firefighters cut a hole in the roof in the back of the home to release the smoke.