Scott Snider, left, talks with New Paris EMT/Firefighter Tyler Holderread after being checked out for smoke inhalation.

By Deb Patterson
InkFreeNews

NEW PARIS — Scott Snider was in the barn dehorning calves Monday morning, March 21, when the dehorner caught cobwebs on fire. The fire spread through a hole in the hay loft floor above causing the hay to begin smoldering.

A firefighter, center, carries a bale of hay away from the barn that was in the hay loft and affected by smoke and fire

Snider called the New Paris Fire Department, which immediately called for Milford and Foraker fire departments to respond. In the meantime, Snider was able to get the calves out of the barn and attempted to extinguish the fire with a garden hose.

The barn is located at 70985 CR 19, New Paris, between US 6 and CR 50. The call was received by New Paris Fire Department at 11:10 a.m.

Heavy smoke was reported in the barn from the smoldering hay. Firefighters and neighbors assisted in removing hay affected by the fire and doused with water. There was water damage to some, if not a majority of nearby hay bales. New Paris Fire Chief Bill Dunlap reported the fire under control at 12:11 p.m.

Firefighters from seven fire department responded and their quick response contained the fire and damage to bales of hay. There was minimal damage to the barn. No calves were initially reported as succumbing to the fire or smoke. While some of the calves suffered smoke inhalation, it was hoped they would survive once they breathed fresh air.

Snider, who suffered smoke inhalation from getting the calves to safety, was checked by New Paris EMS personnel.

Departments responding included New Paris, Milford, Foraker, Benton, Nappanee, Goshen and Harrison Township. Dunlap stated Turkey Creek Fire Territory was also asked to be notified, but it was unknown if they had received the call.