Fire Displaces Family In Gloucester Township, Police Say

GLOUCESTER TOWNSHIP, NJ — A Blackwood family lost their home Tuesday evening in a house fire, said police.

Officers were called to Locust Drive at about 5:42 p.m. Tuesday for the report of a dwelling fire, township police said. The occupants were inside, and no one was injured according to police.

"Arriving officers found smoke and flames coming from rear of the residence," police said. "As Gloucester Township Fire Departments were arriving, officers ensured that the residence and neighboring homes were evacuated as a precaution."

Firefighters from Chews Landing, Blenheim, Blackwood, Glendora, Erial, Lambs Terrace, Runnemede, and Deptford helped Gloucester Township crews get control of the fire, police said.

The New Jersey State Fire Marshal's Office and Blackwood Fire Station 84 will investigate the fire, which does not appear suspicious, police said.

"This is a reminder to check you fire suppression systems and alert / audible alarm systems to ensure they are operational," police said. "Smoke alarms are a key part of any fire escape plan. When there is smoke, there is fire which can spread quickly. Working smoke alarms give you early warning, so you can get outside quickly."