A gas heater has been identified as being responsible for a fire at a backpackers' hostel in Alice Springs overnight.

Police, fire and ambulance crews were called to the fire at Annie's Backpackers in Traeger Avenue around 10.30pm.

Staff evacuated 150 guests after noticing a fire had started in the ceiling of the bar area.

Senior Station Officer John Pyper said two fire units attended and brought the blaze under control. He said investigations showed the fire started after a ceiling-mounted gas heater radiated heat into the ceiling space, causing the fire.

"Fire crews worked swiftly to contain the fire to the bar area, and through their actions the building was saved, " SSO Pyper said.

"Staff should also be commended for the efficient way in which 150 or so people were evacuated from the building allowing fire crews direct access to the fire.

"This is also a timely warning to people to be extremely careful with any heating equipment and to make sure that it has been maintained and in good working order," SSO Pyper said.

"Care should also be taken to ensure the heater is situated in the appropriate place and correct safety precautions are taken, keeping in mind every home and business should have working smoking alarms."

Worksafe is now investigating.

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