(Danville, Va.) – An early morning fire destroyed a home on White Street but all of the occupants got out safely.

Trucks were dispatched at 4:15 and arrived on scene three minutes later to find a small, single-story house with heavy smoke coming from the front door and fire rolling out of a back window.

The first companies to arrive pulled lines to the front door to attack the fire and confirmed everyone was out of the residence. Firefighters entered the home but were but were beaten back by the intense heat and fire. Flames had also extended to the attic and quickly spread through the roof.

A ladder truck was set up and firefighters attacked the blaze from the exterior of the home. The flames were so intense that the house next door suffered some fire and heat damage. The house at 175 White St. is a total loss.

Three engines, one ladder, and two support vehicles responded initially but four additional engines and support vehicles assisted as the fire progressed. 24 firefighters responded and had the fire under control by 5:40 a.m. Units were still on scene by late morning dousing hot spots.

The Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating the cause of the fire. Two occupants are being helped by the Red Cross.