ALEXANDER COUNTY, N.C. — Two Alexander County residents escaped a house fire unharmed at 136 Leylan Woods Ln. on Tuesday after working smoke alarms alerted them to the danger, officials said.
Firefighters with the Bethlehem Fire Department led the emergency response and brought the working structure fire under control within approximately 20 minutes.
The Alexander County Communications Center received a 911 call reporting the residential fire at approximately 11:46 a.m., followed by multiple additional emergency calls confirming a working fire. Both occupants were in separate bedrooms when they heard the alarms activate, allowing them to safely evacuate as smoke and flames filled the structure.
Fire officials noted that the functioning smoke alarms played a direct role in saving the occupants’ lives.
Upon arrival, initial crews reported heavy smoke showing from the residence. Firefighters launched an offensive attack on the flames while battling high temperatures and challenging interior conditions.
No civilian injuries were reported. Several firefighters were treated at the scene for heat exhaustion.
An investigation conducted by the Alexander County Fire Marshal’s Office determined that the blaze was accidental.
Multiple emergency agencies provided mutual aid during the response, including the Ellendale Fire Department, Wittenburg Fire Department, Grace Chapel Fire Department from Caldwell County, Alexander EMS and the Alexander County Fire Marshal’s Office.
The homeowner reported having insurance coverage. The American Red Cross was contacted to assist the family with immediate relief needs.
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