Barking dog and smoke alarm alert Ulysses woman to fire

A Ulysses woman escaped her burning home after she was awakened by the barking of her dog and the yelp of a smoke detector. Flames broke out just before 1pm Friday at the century-old home of Keli Cripen at 416 Graham Street. She was able to escape unharmed and save her pets. Tri-Town firefighters were at the scene within ten minutes and said the home was fully engulfed in smoke and flames. Officials said strong winds quickly pushed the fire through the house, which eventually caused the roof to weaken and collapse. Crews declared the fire under control about 70 minutes later, but not before one firefighters sustained an ankle injury. The fire chief and state police fire marshal said based on the extent of damage, the cause would be labeled undetermined. However, they believe it may have started near a wood stove. Route 49 was closed for upwards of four hours. Damage was estimated at $150,000. Assisting Tri-Town, help was called in from Genesse, Harrison Valley and Coudersport. Whitesville, Roulette and Westfield departments were on stand by.