Firefighters responded at 7:38 p.m., to an occupant report of a house fire in the 4000 block of Yarrow Bluff, NW in Peachtree Corners.  Occupants and neighbors reported the fire to 9-1-1 as a lightning strike.  They were home at the time and heard a loud boom and felt the house shake.  A strong thunderstorm was moving through the area at the time.  The family escaped unharmed and there were no injuries reported.

Crews arrived to find heavy fire in part of the second floor and attic of a large two-story house over a full basement.  Firefighters quickly deployed supply and attack hose lines and made immediate entry to control the fire.  Firefighters were forced to back-out and go defensive due to intense fire conditions from hidden void spaces in the attic and a partial roof collapse.  Crews knocked down the bulk of the flames from the exterior with multiple hand lines and an aerial device, before going back inside to complete extinguishment. 

This fire is an example of the intense power and energy of a lightning strike.   According to firefighters, if you suspect a lightning strike, check your attic and basement.  If you see smoke or flames, evacuate immediately and call 9-1-1.  If it’s not your home, look outside to the right and left.  Lightning could have hit a neighbor’s house.  Be prepared to call for help and assist the occupants until the fire department arrives.  Stay alert to weather conditions, especially if storms are in your area.  This family did the right thing by recognizing the emergency and getting out fast.  We are fortunate that no injuries were reported.

EQUIPMENT AT THE SCENE INCLUDED: 5-Engines, 1-Ladder Truck, 1-Squad, 1-Medic Unit, 2-Battalion Chiefs, 1-Air & Light Unit and 1-PIO