Lightening determined the cause of Homosassa garage fire
Photo courtesy of CCFR.
Citrus County Fire Rescue
Homosassa, Florida — At 4:11 pm on Saturday, June 29, 2024, Citrus County Fire Rescue responded to a residence located on Torenia Verbenas Court in Homosassa due to a reported garage fire.
Upon arrival, firefighters found black smoke coming from the garage, and no visible signs of fire from the road. Fire crews extinguished the fire, which was located near the breaker box on the wall. The main breaker was shut off to ensure safety. The fire was brought under control as of 4:41 pm and positive pressure ventilation (PPV) was implemented at the front door to clear the smoke. The garage door was removed to facilitate the removal of a vehicle, and also allow firefighters to check the attic for fire extension, with none found. The last unit cleared the scene at 5:47 pm.
The power company arrived on the scene and disconnected the meter.
The homeowner was the sole occupant of the home at the time of the incident. She reported that lightning struck either the house or a tree in the backyard, about 20 to 30 minutes before she smelled smoke. She attempted to investigate the garage, but was met with heavy smoke, prompting her to evacuate her home and call 911. The homeowner confirmed she has insurance and declined assistance from the Red Cross, instead requesting service from disaster support services. Fire rescue contacted the company and arranged for them to contact the home owner, who stated she would stay at a neighbor's house for the time being.
The fire was determined to be unintentional, caused by an act of nature, with the primary damage confined to a sub breaker panel next to the main breaker. Damages were estimated at $47,000. No injuries were reported.
Firefighters from the Connell Heights, Homosassa, Sugarmill Woods and Kensington fire stations arrived on scene, along with a rescue unit.
Citrus County Fire Rescue reminds residents to always evacuate immediately and call 911 at the first sign of fire or smoke.
The business office of Citrus County Fire Rescue is located at 1520 N. Meadowcrest Blvd., Crystal River, Florida 34429; business phone: (352) 527-5406. For information about Citrus County Fire Rescue visit its website at www.CitrusCountyFire.com or its social media sites, x.com/CitrusCoFire and Facebook.com/CitrusCountyFireRescue.