photo by: wfla
Two cats were killed after a mobile home in Citrus County caught fire Thursday afternoon, according to Citrus County Fire Rescue.
Firefighters were dispatched to the home on East Circle South Drive around 2:25 p.m. The first crews on scene reported heavy smoke coming from the residence.
As they looked around the area, firefighters said they spotted “heavy fire” on the rear side of the mobile home, where a wooden deck had already burned entirely.
The homeowner told first responders that all occupants had gotten out safely, except three cats that were still trapped inside.
Firefighters managed to rescue one of the cats from the home, but said two cats were found dead. No other injuries were reported.
Crews had the fire under control by 2:52 p.m., but continued efforts to make sure that the blaze was completely extinguished. The last unit was cleared from the scene around 4:54 p.m.
An investigation revealed that the fire originated from a burn pit located about 5 feet from the home’s wooden deck, according to Citrus County Fire Rescue.
Officials said the residents admitted to burning boxes earlier that day. They reportedly tried to extinguish the fire with dirt, but firefighters said residual heat ignited nearby grass. The fire then spread to the deck and house.
The estimated property loss was $122,241, with up to $81,494 in damages to items within the home.
In a news release, Citrus County Fire Rescue said homeowners are encouraged to review the required burning setbacks that are established by the Florida Forest Service in order to prevent similar incidents.
“Citrus County Fire Rescue extends its condolences to the homeowners for the loss of their pets and commends the coordinated efforts of all responding units in safely managing the incident,” the fire department said. “This event highlights the importance of fire safety practices, including proper supervision and extinguishment of outdoor burns.”
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Source: wfla
