Lightning Causes Fire at Lilburn Home

A lightning strike caused a fire at a Lilburn home Wednesday (July 10). 

Firefighters arrived on the 3900 block of Embassy Way, near Killian Hill Road, around 7:20 p.m. They found the home's two adults and one child out uninjured and a small fire burning in the attic, according to a news release from Gwinnett County Fire spokesman Capt. Tommy Rutledge. 

The blaze was confined to the attic with only residual firefighting damage to the second floor. Firefighters worked to clear the smoke and protect contents inside the structure, and the fire was under control by 7:30 p.m.

It appears lightning hit the roof at the center of the structure, sparking a fire in the attic, according to Rutledge. The occupants told authorities that they saw a bright flash and heard a loud popping sound during the brief thunderstorm in Lilburn. Moments later, a neighbor informed them that there was smoke coming from their attic.

"Firefighters remind all citizens to stay alert to weather conditions and be prepared to act if lightning strikes," said Rutledge in the news release. "Always check the attic and basement if you suspect a lightning strike. Feel the walls inside individual rooms and hallways for heat. Evacuate immediately and call 911 if you encounter smoke, heat or flames. If your home is safe, check outside in case lightning hit a neighboring home."

For additional information on fire safety and severe weather preparedness, please contact the Gwinnett Fire Community Risk Reduction Division at 678-518-4845 or e-mail fireprograms@gwinnettcounty.com.

Equipment at the scene included: 3-Engines, 2-Ladder Trucks, 1-Squad, 1-Air & Light Unit, 1-Medic Unit, 2-Battalion Chiefs and 1-PIO. 

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