Chattanooga, TN — A Hixson couple was transported to the hospital early Wednesday morning after escaping a house fire in the 4800 block of Sarasota Drive, according to the Chattanooga Fire Department.
Emergency crews were dispatched at approximately 2:43 a.m. after 911 received reports from the residents as they attempted to exit the burning home.
Upon arrival, firefighters reported that the single-story structure was heavily involved in flames. Both occupants were located outside the residence but required medical assistance.
Hamilton County Emergency Medical Services transported the couple to a local hospital for treatment of smoke inhalation. Officials said the injuries were related to exposure to smoke during the incident.
Due to the size of the fire and concerns about the structural integrity of the home, firefighters initiated defensive operations to bring the blaze under control. An aerial master stream was used to extinguish remaining hot spots.
Multiple Chattanooga Fire Department units responded to the scene, along with Chattanooga Police, EPB, and the American Red Cross. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Authorities said the home is considered a total loss.