La Vergne residents witnessed a swift response from local firefighters that likely saved a home from being consumed by flames. According to a report from La Vergne's official website, a house fire erupted on Crickett Street yesterday, Jan. 13, which drew La Vergne Fire and Rescue into action after receiving a 911 call. The resident of the home heard the smoke alarms—a result of the Get Alarmed program—and escaped unharmed before the firefighters' arrival.
Displaying both speed and efficiency, fire crews made their presence felt, arriving just two minutes after dispatch. With 17 firefighters on scene from all three fire stations in La Vergne, including three engines, a truck company, and a squad, they engaged the fire that poured from the front windows and door. Having quickly confirmed the occupancy status, firefighters launched into suppression efforts, managing to control the inferno within a mere 10 minutes and extinguishing it fully in 18 to 20 minutes. Remarkably navigating through the smoke, not a single injury was reported.
Damage to the property was primarily localized to the living room area. While the cause of the fire remains under investigation, early indications point towards an accidental origin. Making an effective case for early warning systems, Battalion Chief Cody Wilson of Fire Station 41 lauded the role of working alarms saying, "The homeowner reported hearing the alarm activate, observing smoke and fire, and exiting the residence immediately," in a statement obtained by La Vergne's official website. He went on to emphasize the importance of alarms in providing the crucial alert needed for safe evacuations during such incidents.
Through La Vergne's proactive Get Alarmed program, residents are encouraged to have smoke alarms installed in their homes, with the city even offering free installation for those who might not have functioning alarms. Additionally, the Community Connect program serves as a digital helping hand for firefighters and emergency responders by providing vital household information beforehand—including details about medical conditions, pets, and points of access. This invaluable tool assists with navigating emergencies, ensuring responders can do their jobs with enhanced information and precision.
