Muldrow Fire Chief Joe Shamblin said the fire started at Plank's home at about 3:30 p.m. Plank, his wife, and two of his three children were at home at the time the fire began in one of the children's bedrooms. Shamblin said Plank works nights.
Shamblin said the fire started on the bed and was accidental. Plank, who has been with the fire department for about four or five years, tried to extinguish the blaze, using a household fire extinguisher and a garden hose, before 11 fellow firefighters arrived. Plank suffered first-degree burns to his hands, but would not go to the hospital, Shamblin said.
Shamblin said the fire was extinguished pretty quickly, but the bedroom where the fire started was completely destroyed and there was heavy heat and smoke damage to the rest of the trailer home.
"It was pretty well totaled," Shamblin said.
The damage to the contents and structure of the home was estimated at $30,000.
The Planks did not have any insurance. Plank has a 6-year-old daughter, and two sons, who are 8 and 11, but his eldest son was not home at the time of the fire.
Shamblin said the fire department is taking up donations to try to help Plank and his family. The Planks planned to stay with family Thursday night, he said.
"We're trying to get them some help," Shamblin said.
Shamblin said anyone who wants to help may call Muldrow City Hall.
"Anything you can do to help would be greatly appreciated," he said.
