Three family members escaped a house fire on Hearthstone Drive in Fishers early Monday, but three family pets died in the blaze, according to the Fishers Fire Department.

Firefighters were called to the home at about 5:45 a.m. The department said crews fought the fire defensively to bring it under control. Neighboring homes also had damage to their exteriors.

The family is receiving support, the department said.

The Vernon Township Fire Department provided mutual aid at the scene. Fishers police handled traffic control, and the Fishers Fire Corps provided rehabilitation support for firefighters.

The cause of the fire has not been determined. The Fishers Fire Prevention Bureau is investigating.

Fire officials used the incident to remind residents to check the smoke alarms in their homes. The department recommends testing alarms monthly, replacing batteries that can be changed at least once a year and checking how old the alarms are. Most smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years.