The Amarillo Fire Department responded early Wednesday, Dec. 24 to a residential structure fire in the 9600 block of Crystal Avenue, officials said.
Fire crews were dispatched at 3:27 a.m. after reports of smoke coming from a single-family home. Engine 5 arrived about seven minutes later and reported moderate smoke showing from the structure. All occupants had safely exited the residence before firefighters arrived.
Crews initiated an interior attack and found the fire in a heater closet inside the home. The fire was quickly brought under control and confined to the room of origin, preventing it from spreading further, according to AFD. Primary and secondary searches confirmed no occupants remained inside.
Seven apparatus and 22 firefighters responded to the scene. Utilities were secured with assistance from Atmos Energy and Xcel Energy, and the Amarillo Police Department assisted with traffic control.
The fire was declared under control at 3:46 a.m., and all units were cleared from the scene by 4:52 a.m. No civilian or firefighter injuries were reported.
Estimated losses include about $10,000 in property damage and $2,000 in contents. The Amarillo Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating the cause of the fire. Fire crews conducted an after-action review before returning to service.
As colder weather continues, the Amarillo Fire Department is reminding residents to use heating equipment safely. Officials urge residents to ensure heaters are properly maintained, keep combustible materials at least 3 feet away from heat sources, and avoid overloading electrical outlets. Working smoke detectors on every level of the home provide critical early warning and can save lives.
This article originally appeared on Amarillo Globe-News: Fire crews knock down early-morning house fire on Crystal Avenue
Reporting by Michael Cuviello, Amarillo Globe-News / Amarillo Globe-News
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
