Local fire chief says two home occupants escaped blaze sparked by malfunctioning woodstove in Lewis County

LOWVILLE- Two occupants escaped a house blaze over the weekend, which authorities say was sparked by a malfunctioning wood stove.

It happened shortly before 1:00 a.m. Saturday at 7182 Peckham Road.

Lowville Fire Department was the primary responder, with Croghan, Glenfield and Martinsburg providing mutual aid.

Lowville Fire Chief Joe Austin says he met up with one of the occupants at the driveway head. The driveway back through the woods was about 3/4 of a mile long and was not plowed.

A Town of Watson plow truck and sander ended up paving the way back to the home, but access to fight the fire was very limited, emergency officials said.

In fact, it took firefighters nearly 4-hours to bring the flames under complete control, even with the use of UTVs to help bring water to the scene.

When all was said and done, the home was a total loss; though no injuries were reported. The property is owned by Gregory and Rhonda Cole.

Members from the State Police, Sheriff’s Office and Search & Rescue all assisted.

Image via Lowville Fire Department.