(November 18, 2008)—Temple Fire and Rescue responded to a call of a fire at an apartment/motel complex near South 1st Street and Avenue T.

The fire started just after 9:30pm Monday at the Ranch House Motel.

The resident of the apartment left food cooking upon the stovetop as they were watching television in the living room.

The resident attempted to extinguish the flames but the fire became too large.

The kitchen was partially damaged by the fire, the remainder of the unit sustained smoke damage.

Firefighters say the apartment is “currently not habitable”.

The American Red Cross was called for assistance; the apartment complex, however, was able to temporarily place the resident in another unit.

Thomas Pechal with Temple Fire and Rescue says it is always important to regularly test your smoke detectors.