KHGI-TV/KWNB-TV/KHGI-CD-Grand Island, Kearney, HastingsAurora Family Escapes House Fire

By Steve White swhite@nebraska.tv

An Aurora family escaped a house fire on Thursday morning, that forced kids out while they were getting ready for school.

Dex Petersen saw flames in the garage, so he alerted his boys -- one of whom was in the shower. Their son, a senior at Aurora, ended up going to school in his bathrobe, and later got clothes from friends to continue the school.

Petersen and his wife Janelle, a teacher, and their two boys got out safely.

Aurora Fire Chief Tom Cox told NTV the Fire Marshal was investigating, but it appeared heat lamps near dog kennels started the fire.

There was heavy smoke damage, especially in the rear of the home.

Friends and neighbors, including the family's pastor were on scene helping out.