BRONSON, MI — A fire seriously damaged the interior of two-story farmhouse at 926 Wattles Road in Branch County.

The fire happened Tuesday night at 7p.m.

The Bronson Fire Department responded with automatic mutual aid from the Colon Fire Department.

Fire units on the scene found flames on the exterior and heavy smoke coming from the house.

Bronson fire officials say a heat lamp ignited the fire.

Sherwood, Union City, Burr Oak, and Athens fire departments were called for mutual aid to provide tankers and personnel.

The residents escaped with their dogs before the first trucks arrived.

Firefighters found and rescued a cat.

Firefighters were able to save the structure, but there is extensive fire and smoke damage inside. Damages are estimated at $175,000 in structural damage, and $50,000 to the contents of the home.

No one was injured in the blaze.