Intense House Fire Displaces 6, Kills Pet Cat

A large fire Friday evening caused extensive damage to a Norcross-area home and two vehicles parked outside, but fortunately no one was injured.

Gwinnett Fire crews could see a heavy column of smoke as they responded at 6:51 p.m. Friday to the house fire in the 1400 block of Danbury Drive, according to a news release. They arrived to find fire showing from the garage and second floor of the wood-frame house.

The fire was so intense firefighters had to back out of the house to fight the fire from outside. Two additional engines were called to the scene to assist with bringing the fire under control. A total of five engines and two ladder trucks were dispatched.

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The occupants called 911 after hearing a loud popping sound and discovering a fire in the back of the garage. The people escaped the fire without injury, but a pet cat apparently did not survive. Six adults were displaced by the fire, and needed assistance from the American Red Cross.

The cause of the fire was not immediately known, and is under investigation.

“We are fortunate that no one was hurt, especially given the magnitude of the fire,” said Gwinnett Fire Captain Tommy Rutledge.

EQUIPMENT AT THE SCENE INCLUDED: 5-Engines, 2-Ladder Trucks, 1-Squad, 1- Air & Light Unit, 1-Medic Unit, 1-Rehab Unit, 2-Battalion Chiefs, 2-Fire Investigators, and 1-PIO.

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This fire serves as an important reminder for all households to be prepared. Install smoke alarms on every level of the home and in each of the bedrooms where someone sleeps. Develop a home fire escape plan and practice fire drills regularly. Look for and eliminate unsafe conditions that could cause a fire to start. For additional information on home fire safety, please contact the Gwinnett Fire Community Risk Reduction Section at 678.518.4845 or e-mail fireprograms@gwinnettcounty.com.

Photos: Gwinnett Fire PIO