HARRIS COUNTY, Texas — One person died in a house fire in the East Aldine District early Monday, according to the Harris County Sheriff’s Office.
This happened at a home on Old Greens Road east of the Hardy Toll Road around 1 a.m.
Officials said firefighters were at the scene within five minutes of getting the call.
The Harris County Fire Marshal’s Office said firefighters found a man, who family members identified as Michael Munoz, dead inside the home. He may have been trying to escape the fire.
Munoz's family said his wife and children -- ages 4 and 18 -- survived. Fire officials said they were taken to a hospital to be treated for smoke inhalation.
The fire marshal's office said the fire was an accident started by heat lamps that were placed on the back porch to keep the dogs warm.
HCFMO wants to remind the public of the following tips:
- Heat lamps should be at least 18 inches away from cloth, paper, and other combustible materials.
- When mounting the lamps, make sure they are secure and cannot fall.
- If you can, plug heat lamps directly into an outlet.