Quick Burlington Fire Response Limits Damage, Two Cats Safe

A morning fire on December 10 damaged a home on the 2900 block of Maple Avenue, with the Burlington Fire Department estimating about $23,000 in structural damage. Crews were dispatched just after 8:40 a.m., and firefighters reported arriving in just over three minutes from dispatch to find smoke coming from the side of the house. After confirming no occupants were inside, crews located the blaze on the exterior deck and put it out in about 10 minutes.

No injuries were reported and the two cats in the house were unharmed. Burlington firefighters were assisted at the scene by the Burlington Police Department and Alamance County EMS. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

The rapid response and prompt containment were decisive in limiting property loss and preventing injuries. An estimated $23,000 in damage is significant for a single residential structure, but substantially lower than what many house fires can produce when flames spread to interior rooms or neighboring homes. For local residents, this incident highlights both the value of quick emergency response and the financial risks of outdoor and deck related fires during colder months when heating and holiday activities increase fire exposure.

Homeowners should be mindful that an estimated damage figure does not account for potential smoke damage, temporary living expenses, or insurance deductibles. Filing a claim with a homeowner insurer typically requires documentation from the fire department and an inventory of damaged property. Residents concerned about fire safety can use this event as a prompt to confirm working smoke alarms, clear combustibles from exterior decks and porches, and review evacuation plans for people and pets.

Authorities continue to investigate the origin of the deck fire. Burlington Fire Department and partner agencies contained the scene and preserved evidence for the ongoing inquiry. The swift action on Maple Avenue prevented a more severe outcome for the household involved and limited disruption to the surrounding neighborhood.