Beverly Hills home struck by lightning; fire contained to attic and chimney
The homeowner explained that the home had been struck by lightning, earlier in the day, and heat could be felt at the wall by the fireplace. The Pine Ridge crew made entry into the home, secured the power, and deployed a pre-connected hose line. Firefighters also found heat near the fireplace, at the ceiling level, so the ceiling around the fireplace was removed. Fire was found in the chimney and the attic area of the home.
Crews quickly extinguished the fire and checked to see if the fire had extended throughout the attic, and it had not. Positive pressure ventilation was set up to remove smoke from the residence. Fire crews checked carbon monoxide levels prior to turning the structure back over to the homeowner.
The power company arrived to secure the power to the structure. The fire was determined under control at 9:48 pm, and crews cleared the scene at 11:22 pm. Crew members assisted the homeowners with gathering their belongings and medications. The American Red Cross arrived on scene to assist the displaced homeowners. No injuries were reported. Damage to the home was assessed at approximately $30,000..
Other fire stations that assisted with the fire included Citrus Springs, Kensington, and Connell Heights.
For more information about Citrus County Fire Rescue, click here: citruscountyfire.com.