PRESCOTT, Ariz. (AP) -- Christmas lights on an artificial tree were likely what set ablaze a Prescott couple's home, causing an estimated $500,000 in damage and almost costing the couple their lives, fire officials said Saturday.
Helen and John Oakley were just grateful to have escaped the Friday morning blaze that gutted their 3,500-square-foot home.
At around 3 a.m., a smoke alarm woke up the Oakleys, who have lived in their custom-built home for 13 years.
John Oakley, a local physician who retired three years ago, said that when he opened their bedroom door the smoke was overwhelming.
``I'm surprised that it (the smoke alarm) didn't go off before then,'' Helen Oakley added.
By the time firefighters arrived, smoke and flames were visible out of the windows, said Prescott Fire Department spokesman Jeff Jones.
``It (the fire) started by a Christmas tree,'' Helen Oakley said. ``Lights were left on.''
Luckily, fire crews were able to stop the fire from spreading to vehicles in the garage and a majority of their documents and family pictures remained intact in the basement.
