GALVESTON — A man attempting to light a water heater in his attic suffered burns, but his injuries weren’t believed to be life-threatening, a fire official said Thursday.

Galveston Assistant Fire Chief Jeff Smith said firefighters were called Wednesday evening to the 13000 block of San Domingo Drive to investigate a possible structure fire.

“The resident received minor burns and was treated and released to emergency medical services,” Smith said.

The man, who’s name wasn’t known, was taken by ambulance to a Houston hospital, reportedly suffering from burns to his arms and legs. Storms in the Houston area prevented a medical helicopter from making the trip to the island.

He was believed to be in stable condition before the trip to Houston, Smith said.

The University of Texas Medical Branch John Sealy Hospital has been closed after being flooded by Hurricane Ike storm surge.

The attic flashover was believed to have started from a gas line leading to two water heaters; however, firefighters found no fire damage in the attic, Smith said.

The incident could have followed many islander’s attempts to have their natural gas reconnected after Hurricane Ike forced city officials to stop the service for fear of fires.

Ike’s Sept. 13 landfall in Galveston County caused severe flooding and damage along much of the upper Texas coast.