(Brooksville, FL) @ 00:46 Hernando County Fire Rescue (HCFR) responded to a reported structure on fire at 27192 Roper Road. Initial reports stated that neighbors could see flames through a window at the house. The first HCFR unit arrived on scene within 7 minutes of alarm and reported to have a single story residential structure with smoke showing from the residence. Fire crews coordinated a rapid search for the fire and any persons in the residence. No residents were home during the fire. A family dog was found inside the residence, but had succumbed to the smoke. The fire was located in a bedroom were fire crews were able to contain and extinguish the fire. The bedroom sustained heavy fire damage, the remainder of the house sustained heat a smoke damage. The home is untenable. The resident did not request assistance.
Upon the fire crew’s investigation of the fire and in speaking with the resident on scene, it appears that an unattended cigarette by or near a bed is the cause of the fire. HCFR responded with 3 fire engines, 2 rescues, and 2 battalion chiefs for a total of 15 fire rescue personnel. The City of Brooksville Fire Department provided mutual aid with a District Chief.
HCFR would like to remind the community of the dangers of smoking and then leaving tobacco products unattended, especially in sleeping areas.