Space heater sparks fire at Durham home; 2 dogs rescued

Fire crews responded to the home, at 503 Reynolds Avenue, at about 8:45 p.m. The fire was brought under control in about 15 minutes, but there was severe damage to about half of the single-family home.

A mastiff was OK when crews brought it outside, and a smaller dog was revived by paramedics from Durham County EMS, officials said. No people were injured in the incident.

Red Cross was assisting two adults, one child and the animals early Thursday.

"We want to remind residents that portable space heaters should be kept at least 3 feet from any combustible materials, and they should be plugged directly into an outlet," Durham Fire Department spokesman Chris Ianuzzi said. "If an extension cord or surge protector is used with an electric portable heater, the manufacturer's guidelines should always be followed."