HOWLAND TWP., Ohio - A Howland Township family is safe and working to get back on their feet after a devastating house fire on the 3400 block of Birchwood Avenue on Tuesday.

13-year-old Jaeda Watson called 911 when the fire started in the back bedroom, courageously helping to lead her four family members to safety. 

Watson was at her grandma's house playing with her two cousins when her grandma's home burst into flames. 

"We just heard this loud sound like someone got electrocuted," Watson said.

Instincts kicked in for Jaeda as she rushed to lead her family out of the blaze with one goal in mind.

"I was thinking that everyone needed to be ok and away from the fire," she said. 

Black smoke and flames took over the home. 

"Jaeda right away said 'Everybody get out!'" Kim Weaver, Jaeda's grandma said.

Although Jaeda and her grandma lost their belongings in the fire, their family couldn't be more thankful they have each other. 

"I just thought the most important thing is that we're alive and my mom told me stuff is just stuff," she said. 

"She should feel super, super proud of herself," Jaeda's mom, Leatha Ruiter said, "I'm just really grateful that she knows how to keep a calm and a cool head in the midst of chaos."

The Howland Township Fire Department said the cause of the fire remains undetermined, but they believe it was accidental and the family reported electrical problems were a continuing issue.

The family is now staying at a hotel with assistance from the American Red Cross in the meantime.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The four family members made it out safely, as well as their pet XXX.

The Howland Township Fire Department said the cause of the fire remains undetermined, but they believe it was accidental and the family reported electrical problems were a continuing issue.