A house fire in Elliot Lake on Wednesday morning sent one person to hospital and caused significant smoke damage.

Firefighters were called to a residence on Westhill Road just before 11 a.m., where they encountered visible smoke upon arrival. Crews were able to bring the fire under control quickly, but the home sustained heavy smoke damage.

Two family pets died in the incident, and the cause of the fire has not yet been determined.

Officials say the situation highlights the importance of having working smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms on every level of a home, as they provide early warning and can help save lives.