Home Catches Fire After Lightning Strike

A Peachtree Corners home caught fire in the early Friday morning from an apparent lightning strike.

Firefighters found flames coming from the attic at a home located on the 5500 block of Fort Fisher Way.

The homeowner "called 9-1-1 around 1:30 a.m. Friday (June 28) after being alerted by the smoke alarms that sounded," said Capt. Tommy Rutledge, spokesman for Gwinnett Fire and Rescue Services. 

Fire was burning through the roof gable when firefighters first arrived, said Rutledge. "The fire was contained to the attic over the master bedroom and caused significant charring to wood members throughout the attic space," said Rutledge.

Three adults were home at the time of the fire and all escaped unharmed.  There were no injuries reported.

"The fire appears to have been sparked by a lightning strike earlier in the evening," said Rutledge 

The homeowner said that lightning had hit a tree in the backyard that is located near the house.  About two hours later the fire erupted.

"The strike tripped several electrical breakers inside the home.  The homeowner checked the home but found no sign of smoke or immediately following the lightning strike.  He did not call the fire department at that time because there was no obvious damage or existing hazards," said Rutledge.

Firefighters give credit to the smoke alarms for alerting occupants.  Smoke alarms provide an early warning and give added time to escape a fire.  Smoke alarms should be placed on every level of the home and in each of the bedrooms.

Firefighters also suggest that anyone who suspects a lightning strike should call 9-1-1 to alert the fire department.  Lightning can travel inside the home and spark a smoldering fire in the insulation or wooden support members.  The fire may be difficult to detect until it grows in intensity.

For additional information on home fire safety, contact the Gwinnett Fire Community Risk Reduction Division at 678.518.4845 or e-mail fireprograms@gwinnettcounty.com.

EQUIPMENT AT THE SCENE INCLUDED:

4-Engines
1-Ladder Truck
1-Squad
1-Air & Light Unit
1-Medic Unit
2-Battalion Chiefs
1-PIO