Firefighters and a Jefferson County deputy sheriff, using a pediatric breathing mask, were able to save the life of a cat following a structure fire on West Valley Road on Friday afternoon.
But a second cat died.
Some Jefferson County fire units have received breathing masks specifically designed to be used if animals are overcome by smoke during a fire.
But District No. 1 Chief Charles Boggs said his department, which serves the Chimacum, hasn’t received the equipment yet.
“So we used the pediatric mask to give the cat oxygen,” Boggs said.
The animal was taken to a veterinarian for further treatment, according to Boggs.
Twelve chicks also died, said Michelle Laboda, public information officer.
Two-story house
Fire and smoke caused extensive damage to the two-story house at 5500 West Valley Road, about five miles south of Chimacum.
The homeowners are listed as Chuck and Judy Nisbet, but Boggs declined to confirm the ownership.
Firefighters from District Nos. 1, 3, 6 and Port Townsend responded to the fire, reported at about 1 p.m.
They found smoke coming out doors and windows, but were quickly able to extinguish the flames, which were burning in the basement.