Lightning Strike Set North Smithfield House On Fire

NORTH SMITHFIELD, RI — A North Smithfield resident escaped his home after it was struck by lightning and caught fire.

The house was hit by lightning about 3 p.m. Friday, said North Smithfield Fire Chief David R. Chartier.

Firefighters "found significant fire conditions from the far end of the house," Chartier said.

"Crews knocked the fire down quickly and then had extensive overhaul to check for further extension of the fire," he said.

No firefighters were injured battling the blaze, and neither was the resident.

"The homeowner was home at the time of the fire and self-evacuated and was not hurt, but was evaluated at the scene," Chartier said.