A Sherwood home was destroyed by a fire early Saturday morning in the Miller’s Crossing neighborhood.
The Criminal Investigation Division is assisting the fire department to determine the cause of the fire.
The house on West Lake Circle had fire crews called out for two separate emergencies in less than 24 hours.
The first happening Friday around 1 p.m. when a fire started in the laundry room of the home.
Sherwood Fire Department says there was minimal damage and they went through the house with thermal cameras to double check for any hot spots before leaving.
The family stayed with relatives Friday night.
Several hours later around 5 a.m. Saturday morning, a Sherwood Police Officer spotted flames and called in the fire at the same time a neighbor called in the emergency.
The house was already engulfed in flames. The cause of the second fire is under investigation.
Sherwood Fire Battalion Chief, Jodie Hartman says despite using special equipment to see hot spots the human eye can’t detect, tiny embers could hide in cellulose insulation that could later ignite.
“Folks think, oh I’ve got cellulose I’m good, no it’s not fire proof at all. In fact it’s the exact opposite,” he said.
The cellulose insulation is known for its energy efficiency and is used more often in new homes.
Another element fire needs to grow is oxygen. Vaulted ceilings help provide that space and fuel fires, Hartman said.
“With the current construction methods that are going on today, the current building practices it is a hindrance for our efforts.”
The answer to fire protection isn’t to move, but be proactive with smoke detectors. Fire departments around Central Arkansas will donate and install smoke detectors if you ask, including in Sherwood thanks to a grant.