Fallen tree on power lines likely caused Floral City home fire; no injuries reported

Citrus County Fire Rescue

Floral City, Florida — At 7:22 pm on Friday, August 2, 2024, Citrus County Fire Rescue responded to a residence on S. Portage Pt. in Floral City due to a reported fire.

Responders arrived at the home to find smoke coming from the roof and eaves. A water line was advanced to the front of the home, and a forced entry was made into the exterior laundry room. Personnel encountered moderate smoke and a light fire that was concentrated to the ceiling and door frame. The fire was quickly contained to the laundry room, with precautions taken near the electrical panel. A thorough search of the home revealed that no occupants were inside the home.

Ventilation was initiated, and checks were conducted to ensure that the fire had not spread due to the live electrical supply. The power company arrived on the scene to disconnect the power, allowing crews to fully extinguish remaining hot spots. A tanker supplied approximately 2,000 gallons of water.

A large tree had fallen onto the homeowner’s 12 feet by 20 feet shed, which possibly started the fire by falling on the power lines and shorting the breaker panel.

Once the fire was extinguished and overhaul was completed, all units began the cleanup. The last unit cleared the scene at 9:06 pm. No injuries were reported.

Damages were estimated at approximately $15,000. Victim advocate services were called to assist the homeowner with securing the property and the recovery process.

Firefighters from the Floral City, Sugarmill Woods, Highlands, and Hernando fire stations responded to the scene, along with a rescue unit.

In the event of a fire, call 911.