Fire officials are reminding Londoners to clean their dryer vents after a fire at a Pond Mills townhouse on Tuesday.
Firefighters were called to the public housing unit on Barberry Court just before 3:20 p.m.
"Everybody was out of the structure when crews arrived on scene. They evacuated with their pets - a cat and two dogs," said Platoon Chief Colin Shewell. "There was still two cats inside and crews were able to put the fire out quite quickly and find the cats."
The blaze caused an estimated $40,000 damage, but fortunately, no one was hurt.
Firefighters believe the fire started in a clothes dryer in the basement of the home.
"It is a stark reminder that people must be vigilant on the maintenance and cleaning of their dryers," said Shewell. "In these events, it is always a good time to remind people in the city that dryer vents do get clogged up with lint. It is always good to do a quick inspection between loads."
Shewell also recommended having a family escape plan in the event of a fire.
"It is awesome when people will meet us in front of their house and tell us that everybody is out, then the firefighters can go about their job a lot more quickly to find the fire and put it out without worrying about rescue first," added Shewell.