The New Orleans Fire Department is crediting smoke detectors for saving the lives of a man, two birds and a cat Sunday morning. Officials are investigating the cause of the one-alarm fire in the Marlyville/Fontainebleau neighborhood.

Firefighters arrived at 2025-27 Lowerline St. at 5:29 a.m. to find the porch and front attic of the double shotgun engulfed in flames. A resident of the 2027 side told officers he got out of the house when he heard his neighbor’s smoke alarm go off but thought his neighbor might still be inside.

Indeed, fire personnel found an adult male resident of 2025 in bed in a back bedroom. The man was treated on the scene by New Orleans Emergency Medical Services and brought to an area hospital for observation.

A woman who also lives at 2025 Lowerline then arrived and said the family pets were inside. Firefighters found and rescued two birds and a cat. The fire was brought under control at 6:02 a.m.

“This is a perfect example of the importance of smoke detectors,” Fire Superintendent Timothy McConnell said in a statement. “Being alerted by the detectors saved the lives of these two citizens.”

NOFD will install up to two smoke detectors free of charge for New Orleans residents and change batteries for those who are unable to reach their smoke detectors. Residents may request the service online or by calling 504-658-4714 or visiting any New Orleans firehouse