The resident of 910 Center St. in Hannibal was taken off guard when she discovered a small fire on her front porch Thursday.

The Hannibal Fire Department was dispatched to what they thought was a report of a structure fire at that address.

The fire department responded Ladders 1 and 3, Engine 2, Rescue 1, Command 1, Trucks 5 and 7 with twelve personnel.

Upon arrival there was a small fire on the front porch of the residence and it had extended up the exterior wall. The fire was extinguished within minutes of arrival.

The occupant, Julie Broome was home at the time and discovered the fire and called 911. She was able to get her dog and exit without any injuries.

The fire was ruled incendiary with the cause still under investigation by the Hannibal Police and Fire Departments.

If you have any information, please call the Hannibal Police Department at 573-221-0987.