New Orleans firefighters say a misplaced heat source led to a two alarm fire that damaged a Mid-City duplex.
"Two families consisting of four adults were displaced due to this fire," fire officials said. "The cause of this fire was heating lamps too close to combustibles and ruled an accidental fire."
Firefighters received a 911 call shortly after 10 a.m. of a fire at 142 N. Alexander St.
"Fire Companies arrived at 10:06 am to find a two-story wood framed double with flames coming from the rear of the house," saiod autorities. "Firefighters attempted to make entry near the bulk of the fire only to find the passage blocked with debris."
Firefighters then made entry from the opposite side of the building and extinguished the blaze. A second alarm was struck just before 10:30 to bring in extra manpower.
The residents were outside the apartments when NOFD arrived, and no injuries were reported.
"The New Orleans Fire Department would like to remind all residents to keep all heating sources a safe distance from curtains, furniture and all combustibles," sida fire officials. "It is very important to have clear pathways and exits; residents and responders can become trapped when an exit is blocked."