27 James St
HOMER, N.Y. — Smoke engulfed the basement of a multi-family home in the village of Homer Tuesday night, prompting a large response from local firefighters and emergency responders.
The Homer Fire Department received a call at about 8:20 p.m. for a basement fire, with smoke emanating from the home, according to Homer Deputy Fire Chief Rick Reddick.
Firefighters were able to contain the fire to the basement, he said. The Red Cross provided food and shelter to the displaced residents during the overnight hours.
"It was a good effort by everybody," Redick said.
An investigation found that the fire started on a mattress in the basement and was later determined to be accidental, he said.
The Cortland Fire Department, Cortlandville Fire Department and Marathon Fire Department also responded to the scene. The Truxton and Preble fire departments provided mutual aid.
