ROWAN COUNTY — Seven people were displaced after a fire in western Rowan County destroyed their home on Monday.

Firefighters responded to a home in the 2000 block of Hobson Road at approximately 8:45 p.m. in reference to a reported structure fire and found heavy smoke showing from the home, a fire official said. The residents were in the home at the time the fire started but were able to safely escape the building. There were also pets in the home at the time the fire started but the family and firefighters were able to get them all out safely.

Firefighters battled the blaze for almost 40 minutes before it was ruled under control at approximately 9:20 p.m. The fire also extended to a nearby shed. By that time, the flames had severely damaged the building.

The Red Cross was called to assist with seven individuals, four adults and three children, that were displaced as a result of the damage.

Woodleaf, Cleveland Community, Cool Springs, County Line, Scotch Irish, Jerusalem and Rowan-Iredell fire departments and Rowan Rescue Squad all assisted in the efforts.

The Rowan County Fire Marshal’s Office investigated and determined that the fire was accidental and caused by a heater malfunction.