TUCSON, AZ (Tucson News Now) -
A man is hospitalized in serious condition, following a house fire in midtown Tucson.
Tucson Fire Capt. Jeff Langejans tells Tucson News Now, the fire broke out just before 11:15 p.m. Saturday, at a home on the 3500 block of East 22nd Street.
A woman in her 60's woke up, after hearing calls for help. She found the other resident, a man in his 60's, on the hallway floor, with smoke coming from the man's bedroom. The woman was not was able to help him get out of the home, so she went outside to call 9-1-1.
Tucson Firefighters arrived, and went into the smoke-charged home. The found the man, and paramedics took him to University Medical Center.
Twenty-two firefighters brought the fire under control in 10 minutes, according to Langejans.
Langejans said the fire was caused by smoking in a bedroom. There were smoke detectors in the home, but, they were rendered non-functional.
According to Langejans, due to winter weather, firefighters have seen an increase in home fire deaths across the country. Smoke alarms should be installed in all structures whether they are occupied or being remodeled, Langejans said.
The Red Cross is now assisting the family with food and shelter.
Damage to the home is estimated at $10,000.
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