WINTER HAVEN, FL — Quick action by Winter Haven firefighters saved five pets, including four kittens and one dog, from an apartment fire at the Haven at Lake Deer apartment complex Sunday morning. Footage captured by our reporter shows firefighters rescuing the animals from the burning apartment.
According to the Winter Haven Fire Department, crews responded at approximately 10:55 a.m. to the apartment complex on 24th Street in Winter Haven.
Upon arrival, firefighters encountered heavy fire conditions inside a single apartment unit. Crews immediately began an aggressive fire attack while evacuating neighboring apartments.
Firefighters brought the blaze under control within approximately 20 minutes. A total of four apartments sustained fire, smoke, or water damage, displacing five adults. The American Red Cross is assisting those affected.
Fortunately, no injuries were reported among residents or firefighters. Authorities identified the laundry area as the origin of the fire, although the investigation remains ongoing.
Winter Haven Fire Chief Drew Neubrand emphasized the importance of working smoke detectors, noting that an alarm alerted the occupant and allowed them to evacuate safely.
“This incident is a great reminder of how important working smoke detectors are in protecting lives,” Neubrand said. Nothing further at this time.
SOURCE: WINTER HAVEN POLICE DEPARTMENT
