A Chelsea man suffered first-and second-degree burns in a house fire in the 5900 Block of Sibley Road at about 9:35 p.m. on Nov. 26.
His wife and daughter, who were also living in the home, were unhurt.
When Chelsea Area Fire Authority arrived on scene, a majority of of the home was engulfed.
Fire Chief Rob Arbini said the fire was caused by a small fire pit bowl that the man was filling with the proper fluid inside the home.
“It had a violent reaction and flashed at him,” Arbini said, adding the flames caught the man’s clothing on fire and caused burns to his hands, arms and torso area.
He was taken to U-M Hospital and is now staying with other family members, his wife and daughter.
At the time of publication, it is unknown if the family cat has been located.
The family home is a total loss, but the attached garage and its contents are salvageable, he said.
Arbini wanted to remind folks about the potential dangers of having lit candles and using other small heating elements inside the home.
Chelsea Fire was assisted by Ann Arbor City, Dexter, Scio and Manchester fire departments.
