A Plant City family escaped safely from an overnight house fire, thanks to a smoke alarm.
According to Hillsborough County Fire Rescue reports, crews responded to a report of a structure fire at about 1:26 a.m. July 10, at 2628 Wallace Branch Road. Upon arrival, crews found heavy smoke and flames coming from the structure. The crews were able to contain the fire and extinguish it. Water shuttle operations were established, because of lack of hydrants in the area. There were no injuries to civilians or personnel.
Investigators determined the fire appears to be accidental in nature; the home is a total loss. The American Red Cross was initiated to help with the family’s displacement.
The family was alerted of the fire by functioning smoke alarms. The largest percentage of fire deaths in the home occurs at night while people are asleep.
If you do not have smoke alarms in your home or cannot afford them, call Hillsborough County Fire Rescue, (813) 272-6600 and ask about the SAFE program.