Accidentally nudging a cushion onto a propane heater nearly cost a Calgary trailer owner his life early Sunday.

Kirby McLean arrived at his small haven near Hubalta Road S.E. around 9 a.m. to rest and relax.

The 49-year-old was setting up a bed for his border collie Sporty when he hit a cushion onto a small propane heater.

“The whole place went up so fast,” he said. “I have been through hell and back … I realize how hot fire is now.”

McLean believes Sporty also got out before the trailer erupted in flames, but the 11-year-old was nowhere to be found yesterday afternoon.

Friends joined McLean in picking through rubble, attempting to salvage any possessions and locate his beloved pet.

Fire Battalion Chief Al Magwood said crews arrived at the trailer around 9:30 a.m. and quickly evaluated hazards in the area, most notably a number of propane tanks that had been stored dangerously close to the trailer.

A gas station 50 metres away also raised some initial concerns, but crews were able to contain the blaze quickly.

“Of course with the rate that they (trailers) burn, the damage was extensive,” Magwood said.

McLean, meanwhile, had no intentions of giving up his search for his dog and said the fire represented just another hurdle in his life.

“I have learned that in life when you are climbing to the top of that mountain make sure nobody’s in your way,” he said.