RUSKIN, Fla. – Hillsborough County Fire Rescue (HCFR) successfully contained a two-story residential structure fire in Ruskin on Tuesday evening, which officials determined was caused by a candle. All occupants safely evacuated the home before fire crews arrived, and no injuries were reported.
The emergency began at 5:42 p.m. when the emergency dispatch center received multiple 911 calls reporting a house fire on 19th Street NW.
First-arriving HCFR crews encountered heavy smoke pouring from the second floor of the residence. Firefighters swiftly deployed hose lines, launched an interior attack, and managed to bring the blaze under control within twenty minutes of their arrival. A thorough search confirmed all residents had safely exited the structure.
The cause of the fire was determined to be a candle.
The American Red Cross has been called to the scene to assist the displaced resident with immediate needs. HCFR reminds residents to exercise extreme caution when using candles and to ensure they are never left unattended.
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