A Lawrenceville family was asleep when an early Monday morning fire broke out in their home. All ten family members were able to safely escape before crew members arrived to the house on Montrose Court SW.
Around 3:10 a.m. fire crews arrived to find the two-story home had flames coming from all sides. Fire crews were alerted to the scene after a passer-by called 9-1-1. According to a statement from the Gwinnett County Fire and Emergency Services, firefighters deployed multiple hose lines to combat the flames. They were able to determine everyone was out safely.
Photos from the scene show the home was almost completely destroyed. A family of six adults and four children was displaced. A father-in-law told authorities that he woke up to go to the bathroom when he noticed a light coming from downstairs. He discovered that the back wall of the house was on fire. The smoke alarms activated, enabling everyone to get out safely. There were no injuries and the American Red Cross will be aiding the family of 10.
There were no injuries among firefighters either. Crews took rotations so each member could take a break before returning to the battle.
Fire crews determined the fire started accidentally, but an investigation is underway to determine the exact cause.
The Gwinnett County Fire Department is using this opportunity to remind families of the importance of smoke alarms. “This incident illustrates the vital role smoke alarms play in home fire safety. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends the installation of smoke alarms in every sleeping room and outside each separate sleeping area.” For more information on how to be prepared, visit GwinnettSafety411.com.
