Man injured in house fire

A Spokane man who discovered a fire in his basement Monday suffered burns and smoke inhalation while trying to extinguish the flames himself, authorities said.

The homeowner, whose identity was not disclosed, was taken to a Spokane hospital for treatment, according to the Spokane Fire Department. Firefighters said the fire burned portions of his hands and face. Assistant Chief Brian Schaeffer, who lives in the neighborhood, responded and helped provide first-aid at the scene.

The 4:59 p.m. fire, which caused an estimated $20,000 damage to the home at 4329 W. Arrowhead Road, was extinguished by Spokane firefighters.

The cause of the fire was under investigation.