Man risks life to put out brush fire in Madera

MADERA, Calif. (KTVU) - A Pinole man is being called a hero for risking his own safety to put out several brush fires that broke out Friday night.

Video sent to KTVU shows Raphael Moen using his jacket to try and put out the fierce flames.

He says he was driving through Madera on Highway 99, when he saw four fires in a row on the side of the road.

He decided to take matters into his own hands. Several other people passing by stopped to help him, using whatever they had to try to get those flames under control.

Even when the fire crews showed up, Moen continued the fight.

He was treated for smoke inhalation. 

No word yet on how those fires started.