A young girl alerted her family to a fire in their home Wednesday night, allowing everyone to evacuate safely.
The fire was reported just after 10 p.m. on the 400 block of Laurelton Circle in Lawrenceville. Dispatch informed firefighters that the occupants of the burning home were actively evacuating as crews were on their way. Reports indicate a vehicle in the garage was also on fire.
Once on scene, Gwinnett County Fire and Emergency Service crews found the single-story home in flames, with most of the smoke coming from the garage. Responders were able to extinguish the fire and searched the home. Officials said that everyone was able to evacuate safely and there were no reported injuries.
The occupants said they arrived home at approximately 8 p.m. and put their three children to bed. Once in bed, one of the children awoke to a popping sound coming from their garage and woke the parents. It was at that time everyone was able to safely leave the structure.
According to a release, investigators said the fire originated in the garage, where combustible material was being stored in proximity to a heat source. The fire has been ruled an accident.
Gwinnett County Fire and Emergency Services said there were no working fire alarms in the home at the time of the fire. The American Red Cross is reportedly assisting the two adults and three children who were displaced due to the damage.
Firefighters are encouraging all residents to practice home fire safety by installing fire alarms, developing home escape plans and practicing fire drills regularly. You can learn more about fire safety by contacting the Community Risk Reduction Division at (678) 518-4845.
