Homosassa residence damaged by electrical fire
Homosassa, Florida - At 6:07 pm on Wednesday, February 14, 2024, Citrus County Fire Rescue responded to a residence on S. James Terrace in Homosassa, due to a reported fire.
Firefighters arrived at the residence to find an approximately 1,000 square foot residence showing light smoke coming from the eves. The homeowner advised firefighters that there were no occupants inside the home, and she'd seen flames in the bedroom.
Entry was made into the residence. Smoke was observed throughout the residence, and an active fire was confirmed in the bedroom. The fire was quickly extinguished, and fire personnel searched for extension of the fire using a thermal imaging camera (TIC), and none was found.
Searches for occupants confirmed the homeowner's statement that no one was inside. The residence was ventilated, and firefighters confirmed that carbon monoxide was not present. The fire was brought under control as of 6:17 pm. After overhaul and mop up, the last unit cleared the scene at 7:56 pm. No injuries were reported.
An investigation determined that the fire was accidental, and it appeared to have started from electrical arcing due to an electrical wire running from the breaker panel inside the home through a window to the electrical meter outside. Power company personnel responded to the home, and removed the meter.
The property did not have working smoke alarms at the time of the fire. Damages were estimated at $25,000. Assistance was requested for the occupant.
Firefighters from the Connell Heights, Homosassa and Sugarmill Woods fire stations responded to the fire, along with a rescue unit.
According to the U.S. Fire Administration, national estimates for residential building electrical malfunction fires and losses from 2021 show there were 24,200 fires, with 295 deaths and 900 injuries, and over $1.2 billion in monetary losses.
Electrical malfunction is a leading cause of home fire, year after year. Electrical work should only be done by a qualified electrician. Never use extension cords with appliances; plug them directly into wall outlets.