POLSON — A Polson apartment sustained approximately $120,000 in damages during a blaze that ignited last Thursday morning.

According to a press release from the Polson Fire Department’s public information officer, Karen Sargeant, “all occupants were able to get out safely, with the exception of the family cat, who perished in the heavy smoke.”

Sargeant also reported that after an investigation, the fire was determined to be unintentional and human-caused.

The duplex fire at 1112 Hillcrest Drive was reported shortly after 8 a.m., drawing 21 emergency responders to the scene. The press release states that “the fire was quickly knocked down and extinguished, containing the flames to the front bedroom where it was determined that the fire started.”

The entire apartment suffered considerable smoke damage, with the half where the fire originated being deemed “a total loss.” The attached unit of the duplex did not sustain any damage, according to officials.

In the wake of the incident, Polson fire personnel issued a reminder to adults to keep matches, lighters and other fire-starting materials secured and safely out of reach of children. The department also advised the public that, if it can be done safely, shutting doors can keep flames and smoke isolated to the room of origin, helping to limit damage until firefighters can respond.