Seventeen pets have died after a fire tore through a mobile home in Homosassa Springs, Florida, with two people also receiving medical treatment and one cat rescued alive.
Citrus County Fire Rescue was called to the property on West Shadow Court at 3.17pm on Saturday. Crews arrived six minutes later to find the home around 75% engulfed in flames.
Two medical helicopters were requested as emergency responders treated the two occupants. Officials have not disclosed their conditions.
Firefighters brought the blaze under control at 3.37pm, after searching the property for anyone and any animals who might still be inside.
Seventeen pets found after Homosassa Springs fire
Crews found 15 dead cats and two dead dogs during the search, while a surviving cat was removed from the burning home.
The Citrus County Sheriff’s Office assisted at the scene and took the rescued animal to a veterinarian for treatment. The Florida State Fire Marshal also attended and is helping to investigate the incident.
The cause of the fire has not been released. Officials have also not provided further information about the two people who were treated.
Citrus County Fire Rescue expressed its condolences to those affected by the fire and the loss of their pets.
Fire officials have reminded residents to ensure smoke alarms are fitted inside and outside sleeping areas and on every level of a home. They also advised households to prepare and practise an escape plan, including identifying two possible exits from each room where possible.
Anyone who escapes a fire should remain outside and call 911, officials said. People should never go back into a burning building to retrieve belongings or pets.
