BASS LAKE – Three people were forced out into the cold in the early morning hours today as a fire destroyed their home at Bass Lake.
Just after 2:30 a.m., firefighters were called out to a structure fire in the 39000 block of Duck just off Road 432 on the north shore of the lake.
Cal Fire Engines 4255, 4275, 4264 and 4295 responded, along with Madera County Engine 17, Water Tenders 12 and 18, and Breathing Support 18.
Though the first engine arrived at scene within minutes of the dispatch, the 2,500 ft. two-story home was already fully involved.
S
everal trees next to the structure torched out, but firefighters were able to keep the fire from spreading to the surrounding homes, which as anyone familiar with the Bass Lake neighborhoods knows, are very closely situated.
To add to the danger, power lines came down across the fire area prompting a response from PG&E, and a propane tank was venting next to the house.
Adam Barthold, who has lived on the lower level of the house for three years, said he was awakened by the noise of the fire and beams falling. He was able to get his dog and cat out and drive his truck away from the burning structure.
Adam said his landlords lived on the upper level, and according to Cal Fire, they also escaped without injury.
“I have put all my time and money into my business over the last few years, so I didn’t accumulate much stuff,” said Adam, who is the owner of EZ Screen in Oakhurst and recently opened another store in Fresno. “Everything is gone, but I got my truck and my animals, and that’s all that matters.”
Adam says he has family in Coarsegold with whom he can stay, and the Red Cross responded to offer assistance to the other occupants of the house.
Road 432 was blocked off by sheriff’s deputies to allow access to fire equipment.
The house was a total loss, and the cause of the fire is under investigation.
(Morning after photos courtesy of Jacob Clendenning)
