Working Smoke Detectors Alert Sleeping Resident in Early-Morning Beach Avenue Fire

A single resident escaped a Beach Avenue house fire unharmed early [day] morning after working smoke detectors woke him in time to get out of the building, according to the Milford Fire Department.

Firefighters responded to the building fire just after 4:00 a.m. The first crews to arrive reported smoke coming from the building and advanced a handline to the second floor, where they found heavy fire, the department said.

A second alarm was struck, bringing additional units to assist with backup handlines, search, ventilation, overhaul, and control of utilities.

According to the Fire Department, crews faced significant challenges from the building's history of additions and renovations. Multiple stairwells and a mix of old- and new-style construction made it difficult to locate hidden fire within the structure.

The building's single occupant was alerted in his sleep by working smoke detectors and exited the building on his own. He was unharmed, and no injuries were reported among occupants or firefighters.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

A Reminder on Smoke Detectors

This fire is a direct example of why working smoke detectors matter. The Milford Fire Department and the National Fire Protection Association recommend that smoke alarms be installed on every level of a home, inside each bedroom, and outside each sleeping area. Alarms should be tested monthly, and batteries replaced at least once a year. Detectors themselves should be replaced every 10 years.

Residents with questions about smoke alarm placement or fire safety can contact the Milford Fire Marshal's Division at (203) 874-6321.