This update provided by the Gwinnett Fire Alternate PIO on Tuesday, April 24, 2018. Gwinnett County Fire Investigators have completed the investigation into the origin and cause of the house fire on Rozena Place in unincorporated Loganville. The fire originated in the area of the front porch and was caused by improperly discarded smoking materials. The fire has been ruled accidental.

FAMILY DISPLACED BY LOGANVILLE HOUSE FIRE

Firefighters arrived on scene to find a two-story, wood-framed residence on a partial basement with heavy fire involvement throughout the front of the structure. Crews quickly deployed defensive hose lines to prevent exposure to nearby homes. An aerial apparatus was operated to knock down the bulk of the blaze. After knocking down the fire, crews were able to enter the structure and complete extinguishment. A primary search of the structure was also completed. The fire caused extensive damage to the entire home.

Firefighters responded at 6:56 p.m. to a neighbor report of a house fire in the 1000 block of Rozena Place SW in unincorporated Loganville. Caller to 9-1-1 reported the neighbor’s house on fire. Prior to firefighters arriving, the caller advised all occupants were out of the house.

The adult occupant observed a “flicker” from the front of the home. When he investigated, he found the front porch on fire. He quickly retrieved a fire extinguisher and attempted to extinguish the flames. When the fire extinguisher was unsuccessful, he evacuated the three children from the home. Due to the location of the fire, smoke detectors did not activate. A family of five was displaced due to the blaze. The American Red Cross is providing assistance to two adults and three children. One child was assessed and released at the scene for a minor injury.

A fire investigator responded to the scene for fire origin and cause determination. The fire originated in the area of the front porch outside the home. The cause is undetermined and under active investigation.

Firefighters encourage all citizens to practice home fire safety. Be sure to install working smoke alarms on every level of the home and in each bedroom. Develop a home escape plan and practice fire drills regularly.

EQUIPMENT AT THE SCENE INCLUDED: 3-Engines, 1-Ladder Truck, 1-Squad, 1-Air/Light Unit, 2-Medic Units, 2-Battalion Chiefs, 1-Deputy Chief, 1-Fire Investigator, 1-PIO.