Buford House Fire Believed to Have Been Caused by Lightning Strike

A lightning strike is believed to have caused a fire that damaged a Buford home Monday evening.

Firefighters were dispatched to the 4000 block of Bogan Bluff Lane in Buford at 7:01 p.m. on March 18 after a passerby spotted smoke coming from the residence. The passerby alerted the occupants and everyone was safely evacuated from the home according to Gwinnett County Fire and Emergency Services public information officer Capt. Tommy Rutledge.

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Upon arrival, fire crews found smoke showing from the front gable of a two-story wood frame house.  

"Initial firefighters deployed attack hose lines and immediately entered the structure.  Firefighters quickly advanced to the attic and were able to stop to the fire's progress," Rutledge wrote in an email to media outlets. "Fire crews did a great job of containing the fire to the gable area and prevented the flames from spreading."

According to Rutledge, an occupant of the home was working in the basement when she heard a loud boom and felt the house shake. 

"Moments later she smelled smoke and was alerted by a knock at the front door by a passerby," Rutledge indicated.

The woman's husband and son arrived home a short time later. 

"The man praised the firefighters for responding so quickly and for doing a good job," Rutledge wrote.

The fire damage was contained to the attic with minor residual damage to the second floor of the structure. The family was displaced, but did not request Red Cross assistance.

No injuries were reported.

"Now is the time of year to begin planning for severe weather," Rutledge added. "Know what to do when you suspect a lightning strike: Check the attic and basement for signs of smoke or heat. Be ready to evacuate quickly and call 9-1-1 if you encounter smoke or flames."

For additional information on severe weather preparedness, visit the Gwinnett Emergency Management website or contact the Gwinnett Fire Community Risk Reduction Division at 678-518-4845 or e-mail fireprograms@gwinnettcounty.com.

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