ELIZABETHTOWN — For the second straight day, Elizabethtown firefighters were called to a residential fire, this one on Thursday along Sand Pit Road.

Chief Nick West said that, upon arrival, firefighters found fire and smoke showing from the rear bedroom of a single-family dwelling.

“Firefighters found high heat and zero visibility upon entering the home, but were able to quickly knock down the fire and contained it to the rear bedroom and hallway,” West said. “The home also suffered heat and smoke damage throughout.”

One adult and two small children were home at the time of the fire and were able to escape without injury. The occupants were assisted by the American Red Cross.

Fire investigators have yet to determine the cause of the fire at this time and an investigation is ongoing.

“The fire originated in the rear bedroom of the home,” West said. “Damage to the home and contents was estimated at $40,000.”

Firefighters reported the home’s smoke detectors had activated and were sounding upon arrival.

The Elizabethtown Fire Department was assisted by members of the White Lake, Dublin, Ammon and White Oak fire departments as well as Bladen County Emergency Management and Bladen County EMS.

“This was the second structure fire that the fire department has responded to in as many days,” West said. “In both cases the fires started out small and the home’s occupants were unfamiliar with the fire extinguisher.

“We recommend everyone have a home fire extinguisher and become familiar with how to operate it during an emergency,” he added. “A portable fire extinguisher can save lives and property by putting out a small fire or containing it until the fire department arrives; but portable extinguishers have limitations.

“Because fire grows and spreads so rapidly, the No. 1 priority for residents is to get out safely,” West said. “Please contact or visit the Elizabethtown Fire Department for help with fire safety or check out our website at www.Elizabethownfire.org for more information.”

Staff report