UPDATE: Firefighters in Palm Harbor, Florida successfully extinguished a developing fire within the walls of a four-unit townhouse early this morning, potentially averting a catastrophic blaze. The emergency call came in at 12:36 AM when a resident reported smelling smoke in the building.
Officials from Palm Harbor Fire Rescue (PHFR) confirmed that their rapid response was crucial in preventing what could have escalated into a “very big fire.” Fire crews arrived promptly on scene, where they discovered flames hidden inside the townhouse wall.
The resident’s quick thinking in calling 911 after detecting the smoke possibly saved lives and property. Firefighters swiftly launched their attack, working diligently to locate and suppress the flames before they could spread further.
Fire Chief Mike Smith praised the team for their impressive response. “Thanks to the alertness of the resident and the swift action of our firefighters, we were able to contain the situation before it got out of hand,” he stated.
As crews continue to assess the damage and ensure the fire is completely extinguished, residents in the surrounding area have been advised to stay alert for smoke and fire hazards. This incident underscores the importance of smoke detectors and immediate reporting of suspicious odors.
Authorities are conducting a full investigation into the cause of the fire. Residents are encouraged to ensure their smoke detectors are functioning and to have a fire escape plan in place.
This urgent situation serves as a reminder of the critical role of first responders and the importance of community vigilance in preventing larger disasters. Stay tuned for further updates as the investigation unfolds.
