Units from Gainesville Fire Rescue and Alachua County Fire Rescue responded to a residential house fire on Wednesday.

According to the release, at approximately 11:20 am, a fire broke out at a home on the 1300 block of NE 20th Ave. GFR crews Engine 3, Engine 1, Tower 2, Squad 3, District 2, and District 1 responded along with ACFR 34.

GFR units Tower 2 and Engine 3 arrived on the scene and described heavy smoke and flames coming from the rear of the home. Crews quickly extinguished the fire containing it to its room of origin; however, there was significant smoke damage throughout the home.

Thankfully all occupants had already safely evacuated the burning house when Tower 2 and Engine 3 began offensive operations. The American Red Cross will be assisting with finding shelter for three adults and one family dog.  The cause of the fire is under investigation. 

Gainesville Fire Rescue would like to remind citizens that working smoke alarms are integral to provide occupants an early warning of the presence of fire and deadly smoke. Be vigilant and check your smoke detector batteries every time the time changes!