Citrus Springs home 50% damaged by fire believed to be caused by the burning of outside debris

Citrus County Fire Rescue (CCFR)

Citrus Springs, Florida – At approximately 12:22 a.m. on Thursday, June 5, 2025, Citrus County Fire Rescue responded to a residence located on West Tacoma Drive in Citrus Springs due to a reported fire.

Fire rescue arrived at the location at 12:31 a.m. to find the home approximately 50% involved in heavy fire coming from the garage and extending into the attic. Water was applied to the fire by 12:32 a.m., and through an aggressive attack, crews had the fire under control by 12:47 a.m. Numerous fire stations responded to the location to assist with the fire, and a rescue unit was on scene to provide medical support, although no injuries were reported. The final unit cleared the scene at 3:14 a.m.

The homeowner told officials that they had awakened to the smell of smoke and soon discovered the fire. The smoke alarms had not yet activated due to the fire spreading rapidly through the attic space, but sounded later as smoke moved into the living areas. The homeowner confirmed that all occupants of the home had safely evacuated, with the exception of several pets that were still inside the home. Firefighters worked quickly to rescue the animals.

The fire is believed to have originated from an outdoor burn that spread to the home. Thanks to the efforts of fire rescue, approximately 50% of the structure and its contents were saved.

The Red Cross was contacted to assist the family.

Citrus County Fire Rescue reminds residents that all outdoor burning must comply with Florida Forest Service regulations. When burning yard debris, the debris pile must be:
   • Less than 8 feet in diameter.
   • 25 feet from forests.
   • 50 feet from paved public roads.
   • 25 feet from your house.
   • 150 feet from other occupied buildings

IN THE EVENT OF A FIRE, CALL 9-1-1.

Citrus County Fire Rescue Contact Information:
Business Office Location: 1520 N. Meadowcrest Blvd.. Crystal River, Florida 34429;
Non-Emergency Phone: (352) 527-5406.
Website:  www.CitrusCountyFire.com
Social Media:  x.com/CitrusCoFire and  Facebook.com/CitrusCountyFireRescue.