1/11/10 House fire after extinguishment

On 1/11/10 at 1603 hrs TFR units responded to a house fire at 3317 W Ivy Street. On scene within a few minutes fire crews reported smoke coming from the single story house. The fire was under control within 15 minutes, no injuries were reported.

Investigators from the Tampa Fire Marshals Office determined that Maria Cruz, 31 years old, was in the house with her four children ages 1, 3, 8 and 13. She saw smoke coming from the rear bedroom of the house and got the children outside. It was determined the 3-year-old boy was playing with matches and set the bed mattress on fire. The house was moderately damaged with losses estimated to be at least 75,000 dollars.

The American Red Cross is assisting the family with temporary shelter.

Parents and caregivers are reminded to keep matches and lighters out of reach of curious young children. Matches and lighters should be kept in safe places with other items that can be dangerous when in the hands of children such as scissors, knives and guns.

TFR responded to this one alarm fire with 4 fire engines, 1 ladder truck, 2 rescue cars and a couple of chief officers. An estimated 2 responders were on scene from fire stations in Westshore, West Tampa, Hilldale and Palma Ceia.

Category:

Education

Tags:

• house
• fire
• matches