MANILA – Members of the Sweetwater County Fire District No. 1 had a long night as they were dispatched to help with an explosion at a home Thursday evening.
District No. 1 Assistant Chief Scott Kitchner said they were dispatched to Manilla to provide mutual aid to the Manilla Fire Department who responded to a home explosion after a local homeowner attempted to light his hot water heater. Investigators are still unsure why the hot water heater exploded.
Kitchner reported the homeowner received multiple burns and was transported to Memorial Hospital of Sweetwater County. The homeowner’s condition was not know on Friday.
The district responded with one engine and six firefighters and cleared the scene at 10:30 p.m. last night. They assisted two Manilla engines and approximately six Manila firefighters.
According to Kitchner, the home was a complete loss.
If a resident is having problems and trying to relight a hot water heater, Kitchner said make sure there is proper ventilation. He added many times it is just better to call a local professional and have them come out and assist with the problem.
