TYLER, Texas — Two people were injured after a fire destroyed a home in Tyler Monday night.
According to the Smith County Fire Marshal's Office, the house fire happened in the 6600 block of Blanche Street, just east of Tyler.
Officials said the victims, who suffered burns and smoke inhalation, were taken to a local hospital to treat their injuries.
Crews extinguished the fire, but the house and carport were confirmed to be a total loss, officials said.
Although the cause of the fire continues to be under investigation, the initial report shows the fire started in an area where a heat lamp was being used for outdoor pets to stay warm, Smith County Fire Marshal Chad Hogue said.
“Heat-generating devices should always have at least three feet of clearance from anything that can burn,” Hogue said. “Never use extension cords or multi-plug outlets when using heaters.”