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CHAMBERSBURG, Pa. (WGAL) — A fire destroyed a duplex and displaced two people in Franklin County early Thursday, according to the Chambersburg Fire Department.
Crews responded to the blaze in the 700 block of Broad Street in Chambersburg Borough at 3:10 a.m.
Officials said firefighters arrived and found flames shooting from the back of a two-story duplex.
Cat alerted residents, officials say
According to the fire department, a cat awakened the residents to the smoke conditions, which allowed them to escape safely.
Officials said two adults were displaced.
‘Extreme hoarding conditions’
Firefighters said they encountered “extreme hoarding conditions” on both sides of the duplex, complicating their efforts to search the building and extinguish the fire.
Despite those challenges, crews brought the fire under control within 15 minutes, according to the department. Crews cleared the scene around 6:30 a.m.
Fire may have started on stove, officials say
According to the department, investigators believe the fire began on the kitchen stove.
Officials said items may have been stored on the stovetop and a control knob may have been accidentally turned.
The fire caused an estimated $150,000 in damage.
Smoke detectors were not working, officials say
Investigators found smoke detectors installed throughout the residence, but said none were operational because they had not been properly maintained.
“We are thankful that everyone made it out safely,” Chambersburg Fire Chief and EMS Director Dustin Ulrich said. “This incident highlights the importance of functioning smoke detectors and prompt action in emergencies.”
The Chambersburg Fire Department recommends checking smoke detectors monthly and maintaining clear, uncluttered living spaces to reduce fire risks and help occupants and emergency personnel move safely during an emergency.
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