From Dispatches;
The Lakeland Fire Department responded to a reported duplex apartment fire just after 8 PM tonight, arriving just five minutes later to find a heavily involved kitchen fire at 1226 Deleon Way. Firefighters made an aggressive interior fire attack on the fire, limiting damage to the kitchen area.
During a search of the dwelling, 2 adult Chihuahua dogs and three small puppies were found trapped within their pet crates inside of the smoke filled home. Firefighters were able to successfully rescue the pets, carrying them to safety outside. All of the animals are expected to survive.
From the report:
After thorough investigation, the fire was ruled accidental in nature due to
unattended cooking materials on a stove top. It was also noted that a teenage
boy and his younger sibling were home when the fire started and were
thankfully able to safely self-rescue unharmed before firefighters arrived.
The home was found without functioning smoke detectors and serves as a
sobering reminder to assure that you have functioning smoke detectors in your
home. According to the National Fire Protection Association, unattended
cooking fires remain the leading cause of fire within the home. The American
Red Cross is assisting the family with temporary housing. Fire damage was
estimated at $20,000.
Responding fire units were LFD Battalion Chief 2, Engine 31, Engine 11, Engine
12, Rescue 32, Tower 15, Car 7, and PCFR Medic Unit.
