MACON, Bibb County, Ga., Oct. 22, 2026 — Two people were taken to the hospital for smoke inhalation on Tuesday morning, October 20, after a bedroom fire broke out at a home on Hart Road in Macon.
Macon-Bibb firefighters responded to the house around 11:45 a.m. and found a working fire, according to Battalion Chief John Gibson. Gibson said the fire started in a bedroom where two people had reportedly been smoking, and the mattress caught fire at some point afterward.
Both people were taken to Atrium Health to be treated for smoke inhalation, Gibson said. Their conditions have not been released.
The bedroom was a total loss. No other damage to the home has been detailed, and the cause remains attributed to the mattress fire described by fire officials.
Our thoughts are with those who were injured, and we wish them a full recovery.
More on Accidents in Macon, GA
This incident happened on Hart Road in Macon, GA. We cover accidents across Bibb County as they're reported, and you can browse the latest in our Bibb County accident reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I'm caught in a house fire with smoke in the air?
Stay low where the air is clearer, cover your nose and mouth if possible, and get out as quickly as you can without stopping to gather belongings. Call 911 once you're safely outside.
What are the dangers of smoke inhalation?
Breathing in smoke can damage the lungs and airway, reduce oxygen in the blood, and cause symptoms that don't appear right away. Anyone exposed to smoke in a fire should be checked by medical staff even if they feel fine at first.
How do house fires like this typically start?
Common causes include unattended cigarettes, electrical issues, and cooking equipment. A cigarette left burning near bedding or furniture can ignite a mattress or couch within minutes.
What to Do After a House Fire in Macon, GA
If you or someone in your household has been through a house fire, get everyone checked out by a medical provider, even for mild symptoms like coughing or a headache, since the effects of smoke inhalation can show up hours later. Keep any paperwork from the fire department and your medical visit, and take photos of the damage once it's safe to do so. Reach out to your insurance company promptly, and lean on local resources, such as the American Red Cross, if you need temporary housing or help replacing essentials while repairs are underway.
