Family unhurt after cat alerts them to house fire
A family cat helped alert his owner of a fire in the home, allowing everyone to escape unharmed.
The fire started in the garage about 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, homeowner Rick Genasci said.
Officials said Christmas wrapping paper stored too close to the home’s heating system sparked the blaze, which quickly spread to the house.
The Genascis’ cat alerted the family by scratching at the door that connected the house to the garage, Genasci said. When he opened the door, he said, he saw smoke and a fire in the corner.
The family -- and the cat -- were able to leave the house without injuries. Damage to the home was estimated at $100,000.
Start your day right
Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
