BENTON, KY - A fund has been set up at Lake Chem Federal Credit Union for the family of Hardin firefighter Chris Beecham, who lost their belongings in a house fire Friday afternoon on Slaughter Road in Marshall County. The home was severely damage, but nobody was injured.

Beecham, a new member of the Hardin Fire Department, had expected to be on the receiving end of the calls for help, rather than making one.

Beecham smelled something in his home, and later saw smoke in his hallway. He discovered that clothing near the home's hot water heater had ignited.

After making sure that his family was out of the house, he began moving the numerous outdoor bird cages away from smoke and flames. None of the chickens, cockatiels or other birds were harmed.

Beecham told the Paducah Sun the only thing that matters to him is the safety of his family, and the home and its contents were "just material possessions."

Donations can be made to the Beecham Fund at any location of Lake Chem Federal Credit Union.