(Stone Mountain, Ga., Sept. 15, 2016) – Firefighters worked during the heat of the day to control flames at a house in (unincorporated) Stone Mountain.  Crews responded to the address in the 2900 block of Deshong Drive, SW on Thursday, Sept. 15, 2016 around 1 p.m.  The blaze was brought under control by 1:32 p.m.

Two occupants, an adult male and his elderly grandmother, were home at the time the fire erupted and both escaped unharmed.  There were no injuries reported as a result of the fire. 

Firefighters arrived to find heavy smoke and flames coming from the garage and attic of a single-story wood frame house.  There was also a vehicle burning inside the garage.  Fire crews quickly deployed attack hose lines and entered the home to control the fire and to make sure that everyone was out.  The blaze caused heavy damage to the garage and attic and sent extensive smoke and heat throughout the structure.  The car was a total loss.

The fire appears accidental and originated in the garage in the area of the lawnmower.  The man had just finished cutting grass and placed the lawnmower inside the garage.  The American Red Cross was contacted to provide temporary assistance for the displaced occupants. 

Firefighters say this incident serves as an important reminder of following proper fire safety practices.  Install working smoke alarms on every level of the home, in the hallway outside the sleeping area and in each of the bedrooms.  Develop a home fire escape plan and practice fire drills with the entire family.  It’s also a good idea to look for and eliminate home hazards that could cause a fire to start.

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

Dropbox Video/Photo Link: https://www.dropbox.com/s/o6eq5g4xsmd0j2q/Gwinnett%20House%20Fire%20-%20Deshong%20Drive%20in%20Stn%20Mtn%209-15-16.mp4?dl=0    

EQUIPMENT AT THE SCENE INCLUDED: 3-Engines, 2-Ladder Trucks, 1-Squad, Air & Light Unit, 1-Medic Unit, 2-Battalion Chiefs, 1-Rehab Unit and 1-PIO