Smoke detector alerts occupant to early morning garage fire that destroyed Inverness home
CCFR photos.
Citrus County Fire Rescue (CCFR)
Inverness. Florida – At 3:43 a.m. on Wednesday, December 11, 2024, Citrus County Fire Rescue responded to E. Point O Woods Drive in Inverness due to the report of a possible fire.
Fire crews arrived at the location to find a garage fully involved in fire that had spread to the residence. Law enforcement officers on scene reported that explosions had been heard and firearms were possibly inside the garage.
Firefighters initiated a transitional attack of the fire (from the interior of the garage). Fire command confirmed that the fire had extended into the attic and home. A search was also conducted to determine if anyone was inside the home; no one was found. The fire was brought under control by 4:11 a.m. The single occupant of the home had already safely evacuated the home. After crews completed overhaul and secured the property, they cleared the scene by 6:44 a.m.
The homeowner reported that he'd been awakened by the smoke detector soundinh and observed fire in the garage. He said he'd closed the interior door of the garage, leading into the home, then exited the home. He declined medical attention,
An investigation determined that the fire originated in a gas-powered lawn mower parked inside the garage that was connected to a trickle charger. It is believed that the lawn mower's 12-volt battery malfunctioned, igniting nearby combustible materials.
A neighbor confirmed that the lawn mower had been in use, earlier that day, and the trickle charger was in place at the time of the fire.
The fire was deemed accidental, with no suspicious circumstances.
The fire also consumed a 2015 Chevy Equinox that was parked in the garage. The home sustained significant fire and smoke damage. The property loss was estimated at $238,581, and the loss to the home's contents was estimated at $159,054.
According to fire rescue, the homeowner's quick action in closing the interior garage door and evacuating the residence likely minimized property damage and prevented additional injuries, and the working smoke detector provided the critical early warning that allowed the occupant to safely exit the home. This incident serves as a reminder as to the importance of having a functional smoke detector and fire safety knowledge.
No injuries were reported amongst the firefighters.
Assistance for the homeowner was provided through 1-800-BOARDUP to secure the structure.
IN THE EVENT OF A FIRE, CALL 9-1-1.
For information about Citrus County Fire Rescue, visit www.citruscountyfire.com. Its business office is located at 1520 N. Meadowcrest Blvd., Crystal River, Florida, and it's non-emergency phone number is (352) 527-5406.