Berrien County Dispatch received a call reporting a structure fire at a residence in the 15000 block of Locke Road in Chikaming Township.

The call came from a neighbor, who was unaware if the residence was occupied.

Upon arriving, two officers from responding departments entered the smoke filled residence, locating the homeowner inside.

The resident, a 55 year old male, was reportedly disoriented inside the smoke.

Both officers assisted the male safely out of the residence.

The man suffered significant 3rd degree burns, as well as smoke inhalation and was treated on scene by Paramedics before being transported, in serious condition, to Bronson Hospital in Kalamazoo.

Currently the fire remains under investigation.