A family of five is safe thanks to their quick response to the sound of smoke detectors after a large fire began to engulf their home just after midnight on Thursday morning.
Tampa Fire Rescue responded to the 10200 block of Estuary Drive in reference to a structure fire. Their first crews on scene found heavy smoke and flames coming from the single-story home. The flames were so large and intense that crews needed to battle the fire from a defensive posture. Once the flames were knocked down, crews were able to complete a search of the home.
On scene of a house fire on Estuary Drive in New Tampa. All occupants made it out we're being told. pic.twitter.com/oTTDy7Cii7
— Ryan French (@RyanFrenchWFTS) June 22, 2017
The family of five, father, mother and three children, had safely exited the home prior to fire crews' arrival. The family dog also escaped safely.
The fire was under control by 1:50 a.m.
Tampa Fire Rescue says that the fire originated in the northwest portion of the garage from an undetermined ignition source, causing extensive fire and smoke damage throughout. Investigators were unable to complete a reconstruction of the fire scene due to the structural collapse of the roof. The home is a total loss with damage to the structure and contents estimated at $377,000.
NOW: Firefighters suspect the fire started in the garage of this New Tampa home. It was so intense it destroyed the cars in the driveway. pic.twitter.com/Za4QjVM8ml
— LindsayLogue (@LindsayLogue) June 22, 2017
The father smelled smoke moments before the smoke detectors went off. When the detectors began to siren, it further alerted the entire family to the problem.
Tampa Fire Rescue says that the family was quick to respond to the working smoke detectors in their home which was critical in alerting the family of the presence of fire.
"You can replace a home, but you can't replace a life. It's that important. And that's the message from tonight," said Jason Penny with Tampa Fire Rescue.
“This is yet another example of how smoke detectors save lives,” officials with Tampa Fire Rescue stated.
There were no injuries reported at the scene. The displaced family was taken in by friends in the neighborhood.
