Crystal River home damaged from clothes dryer fire; no injuries to occupants or pets

Citrus County Fire Rescue

Crystal River, Florida — At 10:50 pm on Tuesday, August 27, 2024, Citrus County Fire Rescue responded to a residence located on W. Tangerine Ln. in Crystal River, due to a reported fire,

First responders arrived on scene to find a 1,000 square foot concrete block home with smoke and fire visible from the rear of the building. A fast attack was initiated on the fire. A handline was entered by way of the front of the building while the utilities were secured. A clothes dryer was found on fire on a small porch at the rear of the house. The fire was extinguished at 10:57 pm.

The Withlacoochee River Electric Cooperative (WREC) was on scene to remove the meter due to exposed wiring in the area of the fire.

The fire originated in the dryer and had begun to spread to the eaves and attic areas, but due to the quick response and coordinated efforts of fire crews, the fire's spread was minimal and quickly contained.

Two tenants reported that three dogs were still inside the structure. All three dogs were located and accounted for, with no injuries reported to the tenants or their pets. The tenants did not require further assistance.

Overhaul operations were completed, and the last unit cleared the scene at 12:19 am.

Damages were estimated at approximately $36,082.

Firefighters from the Connell Heights, Pine Ridge and Kensington fire stations responded to the scene, along with a safety captain and a rescue unit.

Citrus County Fire Rescue is committed to the safety and well-being of our community and urges all residents to take dryer safety seriously. By following the clothes dryer safety precautions listed below, you can significantly reduce the risk of a dryer-related fire in your home:

1. CLEAN THE LINT FILTER
Do not use the dryer without a lint filter. Always clean the lint filter before and after each cycle. Lint buildup can block the flow of air, which can cause overheating and potentially ignite a fire. Also clean the back of the dryer, where lint can build up.

2. CHECK THE VENT SYSTEM
Ensure that the dryer vent system is installed correctly and free of obstructions. This includes checking the vent pipe and ensuring it exhausts to the outside without any blockages. Check the venting system behind the dryer to make sure that it is not damaged, crushed or restricted.

3. DON’T OVERLOAD THE DRYER
Overloading the dryer can cause the motor to overheat, increasing the risk of fire. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for load size.

4. AVOID RUNNING THE DRYER UNATTENDED
It's best not to leave the dryer running when you're asleep or out of the house. This ensures you can respond quickly if an issue arises.

5. REGULAR MAINTENANCE
Periodically have your dryer inspected by a professional to ensure it’s in good working condition. This can help identify potential issues before they become hazards. Never use an extension cord with a major appliance. The extension cord can overheat and start a fire.

In the event of a fire, call 911.

CCFR's business office is located at 1520 N. Meadowcrest Blvd. in Crystal River, Florida 34429; non-emergency phone number: (352) 527-5406; website: www.citruscountyfire.com.