ATHENS, Ohio -- Students have returned safely to their rooms in Bromley Hall following a fire evacuation early this morning, Ohio University officials reported.

Smoke, heat, and fire alarms went off at approximately 5 a.m. when a clothes dryer in a janitorial area caught fire, possibly because of a motor malfunction, said Randy Shelton, director of the university's housing and food services.

Shelton said damage caused by the fire was minimal and limited to the janitorial area.

"The residents of Bromley Hall responded to the fire alarms quickly and the evacuation was orderly," Shelton added. "We are grateful for the students' responsible conduct, the professional assistance of the residence hall staff, and the rapid response of the Athens Fire Department and Campus Police."

Approximately 400 students live in Bromley Hall.