A Louisiana firefighter is recovering after suffering severe burns to his hands at a house fire on Christmas morning.
While doing a size-up on the house, St. John firefighters determined the fire was in a wall near one of the chimneys.
Firefighters Chris Winkler and Bobby Rodrique went to check the attic, and that's when they were caught in a backdraft, Chief Jeremy Babin explained.
Both were transported to a local hospital for treatment, and later transferred to University Medical Center in New Orleans, according to St. John Volunteer Fire Department Facebook page.
Babin says protective gear saved Rodrigue’s life. But, his hands, which were exposed, were severely burned.
Winkler was released the following day, while Rodrigue came home late last week after having surgery. Local fire departments and police escorted him to his residence.
The chief said Rodrigue is has a long road to recovery.
