Two dogs alerted a Palm Bay family to a fire in their home early Tuesday, prompting an evacuation that likely saved lives. The incident occurred around 2:45 a.m. at a residence on 14th Street in the city’s southeast quadrant, according to Palm Bay Fire Department officials. The family was asleep when the animals began barking relentlessly, drawing the attention of neighbors who called 911. Firefighters arrived within minutes and contained the blaze before it could spread beyond the kitchen. No one was injured, and the cause of the fire is under investigation. Firefighters said the dogs’ actions were critical in ensuring the family’s safety. 'They gave the family time to get out before the fire became unmanageable,' said Captain Mark Thompson, who oversaw the response. The family, who declined to comment publicly, later thanked the fire department and neighbors for their help. The dogs, a mix of a golden retriever and a terrier, are described as 'alert and fearless' by the family’s neighbor, who witnessed the animals’ behavior. The fire department is working with local animal groups to recognize the dogs’ role in the incident. This is the second time in two years that animals in Palm Bay have been credited with alerting residents to fires. In 2022, a cat in the same neighborhood triggered a smoke alarm that prevented a fire from spreading. Fire officials emphasize that smoke alarms and pet training can be lifesaving. 'Pets can be early warning systems,' said Thompson. 'But they’re not a substitute for working smoke detectors.' The family has since installed additional smoke alarms and is considering enrolling the dogs in training programs.