A home south of New Concord was damaged by fire Saturday afternoon while its sole occupant was away.

According to Lieutenant Shane Barkley of the New Concord Fire Department, a passerby saw smoke through the windows and called for help.

When firefighters arrived on scene, Barkley said they found a hot fire in a first-floor bedroom.

Damage was limited to the bedroom and adjoining room once the fire was contained, Barkley said.

Firefighters believe the fire was caused by an external heating device found inside the bedroom.

Assisting New Concord on the scene were the Cassell Station, Wayne Township, and Perry Township fire departments.