An Ypsilanti Township home was severely damaged in a fire touched off by a 9-year-old child playing with matches on Tuesday afternoon, according to the Ypsilanti Township Fire Department.

Capt. Kurt Owings said firefighters arrived just before 5 p.m. to find flames coming out of a window and smoke throughout the one-story ranch house. at 1812 Crittendon Ave.

Owings said the 70-year-old homeowner sustained second-degree burns to his right lower leg and right forearm while trying to put the fire out himself. Owings said the fire department had the fire under control around 5:12 p.m.

The two were the only people home at the time, Owings said. The man was able to evacuate the child safely with no injuries.

Owings said the fire caused $80,000 worth of damage to the home, plus an additional $40,000 in contents. He said the home was valued at $120,000.