The Pella Fire Department was able to extinguish a house fire in the city limits earlier today. Emergency crews from Pella Police, Fire, and Ambulance responded to the call at 402 Columbus Street at 12:08 p.m. for visible flames inside and extensive smoke outside on the backside of the structure.

The family was able to evacuate quickly and no injuries were reported. Pella Fire Chief Randy Bogaard says the cause is hard to determine now, but it could have been either a candle that was burning inside or an electronic failure for a phone charger.

Bogaard says the flames were contained to the interior of the house, but there was extensive smoke damage inside. It took the department approximately 45 minutes to clear the scene after arrival.