Woman and Pet Dog Dramatically Rescued from Mount Warrigal House Fire
Emergency services performed a dramatic early-morning rescue, pulling a woman and her pet dog from a burning home in Mount Warrigal that was completely gutted by the intense blaze.
Early Morning Emergency Call
The terrifying incident began when the first triple zero calls were received around 4:50am on Friday, January 30, reporting a house fire on Morgan Avenue. When firefighters arrived at the scene, they found the single-level brick dwelling well alight with flames engulfing the property.
Fire crews immediately donned breathing apparatus and oxygen cylinders to enter the burning structure in search of occupants. Inside, they discovered a 50-year-old woman suffering from smoke inhalation. A NSW Police spokeswoman confirmed the woman was found inside the property during the dangerous rescue operation.
Medical Treatment and Animal Rescue
According to a NSW Ambulance spokesman, the woman may have initially been unconscious when discovered by emergency responders. Paramedics provided urgent treatment at the scene before rushing her to Wollongong Hospital in what was described as a serious but stable condition.
In a heartwarming aspect of the rescue, firefighters also saved the woman's pet dog from the burning home. The animal received first aid from emergency personnel before being handed over to a neighbour for ongoing care and monitoring.
Extensive Damage and Crime Scene Declaration
The fire caused extensive damage to the entire property, completely gutting the dwelling. The area has now been officially declared a crime scene as investigators work to determine the cause of the devastating blaze.
Fire and Rescue NSW Inspector Andrew Erlik stated that the cause remains unknown at this stage. "The electricity wires were down, but that could be as a result of the fire," he explained, indicating that investigators are considering all possibilities.
Comprehensive Investigation Underway
A thorough investigation has now commenced at the Morgan Avenue property. Forensic police officers have joined a specialized fire investigation team from Fire and Rescue NSW at the scene. The investigation unit includes an accelerant detection dog specially trained to identify potential fire-starting substances.
Police have made a public appeal for information regarding the incident. Authorities are urging anyone who witnessed the blaze or has relevant information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 as the investigation continues.
The Mount Warrigal community has been shaken by the dramatic early-morning fire, with emergency services praised for their swift response and successful rescue of both the woman and her canine companion from the life-threatening situation.
