3 children hospitalized after fire on Wandering Way in Norcross
NORCROSS, Ga. - A house fire in Norcross displaced a family of seven and sent three children to the hospital, highlighting the critical importance of working smoke alarms in homes.
What we know:
Gwinnett County firefighters responded to a report of a house fire on the 6100 block of Wandering Way in Norcross on Feb. 4 at 7:40 p.m. The 911 caller reported flames coming from the front door and confirmed that all occupants had evacuated the home.
Upon arrival, fire crews encountered a significant fire engulfing both the front and back of the two-story, split-foyer residence. Firefighters deployed three hose lines and brought the fire under control by 8:01 p.m. However, the house sustained extensive fire damage to the main living space, kitchen, second-floor bedrooms, and attic, along with heavy smoke and water damage throughout.
A stairwell inside the home had been compromised and collapsed due to fire damage, complicating firefighting efforts. Six occupants—four adults and three children—were inside the home when the fire started but managed to escape before firefighters arrived. A dog was found safe in the backyard and reunited with its owner.
What they're saying:
The occupants reported they had been cooking earlier but were unsure of the fire’s exact cause. Notably, there were no working smoke alarms in the home at the time of the fire, which may have delayed their awareness of the blaze.
By the numbers:
6: Number of occupants in the home at the time of the fire.
3: Children transported to local hospitals.
1: Adult treated and released on the scene.
1: Dog safely reunited with its family.
What's next:
Fire investigators responded to the scene to determine the origin and cause of the fire, which remains under investigation. The American Red Cross has been requested to assist the displaced family.
Why you should care:
This incident underscores the importance of having functional smoke alarms in every home. Smoke alarms provide critical early warnings that can help occupants escape safely during a fire. Regular maintenance and testing of these devices can save lives.
What you can do:
Residents are encouraged to ensure that their homes are equipped with working smoke alarms and to test them regularly. Additionally, families should develop and practice a fire escape plan to prepare for emergencies. For more information on fire safety, contact your local fire department.