(KLZA)-- Fire caused extensive damage to a Falls City home Tuesday evening.

Firefighters and other emergency responders were called to 1723 McLean Street at about 9:30.

Upon arrival, heavy smoke was coming from the second floor eves of the home.

Falls City Volunteer Fire Department Public Information Officer Jon McQueen said it appears the cause of the fire was electrical in nature, stemming from improper ventilation of a plugged dryer vent.

The owners of the home said the fire was coming out from the front of the dryer. They pulled the plug and attempted to extinguish the fire.

All occupants of the house were able to get out without injuries. However, several cats did perish in the fire.

Due to the construction of the house and the fire climbing up through the walls and several confined spaces, including multiple ceilings, it was difficult for fire fighters to locate the fire.

Extensive damage was done to the inside of the home due to smoke and water.

Several fire fighters remained on the scene until around 1:30 a.m. for hot spots. Part of 18th Street was closed as a precaution due to the freezing water.

The State Fire Marshal's Office was contacted. It appears no insurance was in force.

The Fire Department thanked local residents for providing drinking water, clothes and blankets for the family.

The Falls City Volunteer Fire Department, Falls City Rural Fire Department, Falls City Volunteer Ambulance Squad, Falls City Police Department and Falls City Utilities all responded to the fire call.

McQueen noted that a new fire hydrant across the street from the fire that was installed this past year was utilized in fighting the blaze.

According to the Richardson County Assessors website, the owners of the home are Matthew Stroebel and Kari Harwood-Stroebel.