The following is a press release from the Puget Sound Regional Fire Authority.

The Kent area’s first house fire of the year took place shortly before 5 a.m. the morning of Jan. 1 in the 11800 block of SE 261 Place.

Three adults and two dogs were able to escape from the two-story house and call 911 after they were awoken by their smoke alarms.

When firefighters from the Puget Sound and Valley RFAs arrived, they found smoke coming from the home, but no fire. Once they walked to the back of the house they found the first-floor family room engulfed in flames.

Although the fire was put out quickly, there is extensive smoke and heat damage throughout the house with an estimate of $300,000.

The cause of the fire was a sofa that was too close to a natural gas fireplace insert.

Red Cross is assisting the family and The Flood Guys are providing a free service by boarding up and securing the damaged home.