EL PASO, Texas -- Fire investigators said an early-morning house fire in northeast El Paso could have been prevented. They determined faulty wiring in the garage caused a home on Yogi Berra Circle and Mickey Mantle Avenue. A discount store extension cord that was being used in the garage-turned-game room overheated because several items were plugged into it.

Spokesman Lt. Mario Hernandez wants to remind the public to avoid using such extension cords because they can be a fire hazard. Instead, he recommends using one with surge protection or circuit breaker.

"We recommend that you use something like this … something with a surge protection. You can notice the difference in the thickness of these extension cords. This one has a surge protector (and is much thicker), and has three prongs and various outlets so you can plug in many things and still be safe," said Hernandez.

The fire broke out at 8:05 a.m. Thursday, while one of the residents was inside. "She heard crackling and popping in the house, and then she checked the house but nothing was going on. Then she checked the garage, and the garage was on fire," said Edwin Hernandez, who's wife called him at work with the bad news.

The military couple moved to the Sun City just a few months ago.

"I didn't know what to expect when I came home from work. I really didn't know what to expect. I was scared, nervous. I'm just glad no one was in the house," said Hernandez.

Hernandez's wife escaped safely, but they had 19 pets in the home and it was up to firefighters to save them. The pets included two ferrets, two guinea pigs, five dogs, fish and mice.

Neighbors watched as firefighters pulled out the animals to safety.

"One of them looked a little unconscious. Fire marshals brought out a tank of oxygen to help the animals recover," said Terry Smith, who lives nearby.

Firefighters used small animal masks donated by the Animal Rescue League to aid the animals against smoke inhalation. The resident was taken to William Beaumont Army Medical Center for smoke inhalation.

Firefighters estimate damage at $45,000. While it may be too late for the Hernandez family who lost everything, firefighters hope this is an early reminder for others. Extension cords are for temporary use only.

Before you start plugging in holiday lights, remember to never cover any part of an extension cord with rugs or other objects because it won't let the heat escape. Extension cords used outside should be specifically designed for outdoors. Use special, heavy-duty extension cords for high wattage appliances such as air conditioners, portable electric heaters and freezers. If a cord feels hot, or is cracked throw it away.