Fire caused heavy damage to a home on Tommy Aaron Drive Wednesday evening, but the occupants and their pets evacuated safely without injuries, Gainesville Fire Chief Jon Canada said.

There was fire and smoke showing from the roof when firefighters arrived around 5:15 p.m. at the two-story house in the 500 block, Canada said.

The fire was found to have started in the second floor and attic area of the 4,000-square foot home and firefighters had the blaze under control within 50 minutes before it could spread much farther, Canada said.

Three engine companies and rescue and medical units responded to the fire, which burned through the roof, he said.

The homeowners got out safely, as did their two dogs and four cats, he said. They planned to stay with relatives or friends.

Canada said it was “mighty hot” fighting the fire. The area was under a heat advisory as temperatures climbed high into the 90s.

“On a day like today, it will really takes a toll on firefighters,” he said.

A cause and a dollar figure on the loss haven’t been determined, Canada said. He added that fire investigators will return to the home today.