The fire spread quickly. By the time brush and fire trucks arrived, the flames and smoke were blowing into homeowners' backyards.
The home of Marine veteran Jim Bertels and his wife, Sharon, took the brunt of the fire, which burned the grass right up to the couple's home, including up to their full propane tank, then crossed their yard to Lapington Road. The Bertels were out of town visiting family at the time.
Bertels said she found out just how blessed her family is in their community.
Members of the community said they are also thankful for the area's volunteer fire department.
Owens Volunteer Fire Department's Teresa Lovell arrived at the scene in her church clothes and dress shoes alongside other volunteers who responded from their homes and churches.