New Hampshire Man Rescues Cat; Cat Saves Man From Fire

HUDSON, N.H. (AP) -- A man who rescued a stray cat from the cold got the favor returned on Sunday when the cat woke him as his house filled with smoke.

Roland Rioux, 76, who lives alone, fell asleep watching television, but was jolted awake when the cat, named Munchkin, jumped up and landed on his chest with all fours.

Rioux was able to get up in time to call the fire department and evacuate safely.

Rioux put the cat in the garage and in the confusion, Munchkin bolted. Rioux and his family are asking for help finding the black-and-white cat.

Fire officials say the fire was probably caused by an electrical malfunction in the basement.