AUBURN — Applebee’s was evacuated Saturday evening when a faulty light fixture began smoking and set off the restaurant’s fire alarm.

Auburn firefighters said the alarm went off around 6:30 p.m., forcing an estimated 40 patrons and employees from the restaurant during dinnertime.

After a short search, firefighters discovered smoke coming from a light fixture. The city electrician removed the fixture. Because there was smoke in the building, Applebee’s remained closed Saturday evening until a city health inspector could give it the OK to reopen.