ROYSTON, Ga. — Royston firefighters assisted Hart County crews in a structure fire Saturday afternoon after receiving a call reporting possible trapped occupants while returning from participating in the Lavonia Christmas parade.

According to a media release issued December 7, the City of Royston Fire Department was traveling south on Highway 17 around 4 p.m. when the call came in. The engines involved were backup or “second out” apparatus — units often used for parades or out-of-town events rather than primary emergency response.

Fire personnel, who were only about two minutes from the incident location when the call was dispatched, contacted command staff and quickly received authorization to respond and provide mutual aid to Hart County Fire Department Stations 3 and 5.

When crews arrived, they encountered heavy fire conditions and reports of possible entrapment. Firefighters deployed hose lines and made entry into the structure. The fire was brought under control within minutes.

No occupants were found inside the home, but firefighters rescued two puppies, which are expected to survive, officials said. No civilian or firefighter injuries were reported.

Royston officials said the decision to respond was made out of mutual respect and longstanding cooperation between the neighboring fire departments.