PHELPS – A Phelps family had homegrown fireworks Saturday night. The couple was enjoying a backyard picnic when they spotted smoke coming from their home at 1273 Ridley Road. 

     A quick call to the fire department determined that faulty wiring had caused a fire in their dryer. The home was condemned until the wiring can be replaced. 

     The American Red Cross in the Finger Lakes also responded, Disaster team co captain Gayle Rosekrans was assisted by co-captain Steven Brown. Rosekrans said she is grateful that no one injured in the fire.

     The family’s three dogs also escaped the fire. For one dog, it was a second brush with disaster. She was adopted by the family after being rescued from Hurricane Katrina. The couple and their dogs will stay with friends until the house is repaired. The house was insured, said Brown.

     “I’m glad we weren’t needed to provide food or shelter this time,” said Rosekrans. “But if you need us, even on a holiday, you can be sure the Red Cross will be there.”