Crime & Safety

Updated: Four People Displaced in House Fire

The fire department reports that the two adults and two children had just moved into the home.

Updated Aug. 4 at 9:15 a.m. 

Firefighters were taking on more than just the heat of a fire last night when they responded to a call in Norcross. They were also fighting to keep themselves cool and hydrated in the heat and humidity. 

Four people, two adults and two children, were displaced from the blaze, according to a fire department statement. Neighbors said that had just moved in a few weeks ago and were still unpacking their bags. 

Find out what's happening in Norcrosswith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The Gwinnett County Fire Department responded to a call of a fire at 7:20 p.m. at 5483 Christy Court in the Norcross area. A neighbor placed the call, saying she saw smoke coming out of the roof. 

Fire Captain Tommy Rutledge reported that firefighters made their way into the two-story, single-family home when they arrived, searching for any victims inside and containing the fire to the kitchen. 

Find out what's happening in Norcrosswith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The cause of the fire appears to be food left unattended in the kitchen, said Rutledge. 

The firefighters took frequent water breaks, put cool towels on their heads and necks and had their vital signs monitored. It was between 92 and 96 degrees last night, after a scorching day. 

"We can all take lessons from watching firefighters:  They take frequent breaks and drink plenty of refreshing cold water.  Know your limitations in the heat and humidity and avoid a heat related illness," Rutledge said.


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