Fire destroys island home
The Matlacha/Pine Island Fire Control District responded to a house fire Sunday, Feb 22, at around 2:21 p.m., on Rat Road in Bokeelia.
The department reported that units E-151, E-152, E-153, E-154, T-151, Cap-150, PI-2, and PI-1 were dispatched to the residential structure fire with heavy black smoke showing.
Upon arrival, firefighters found a two-story structure fully involved, with propane tanks, oxygen cylinders and welding tanks actively exploding. Due to the lack of nearby hydrants, a strike team of tenders was requested to establish a sustained water supply. The M/PIFCD noted its appreciation for assistance in fighting the fire from Cape Coral Fire Department, Alva Fire Department and the strike team leader from Fort Myers Shores Fire Department.
Fire District officials noted that the fire also ignited several small brush fires in the surrounding area, which were quickly contained by responding crews.
A drone from Lee County Sheriff’s Office was requested to survey the area for additional hotspots. Fortunately, the fire did not spread, the report states.
One firefighter was transported as a precaution and is doing well, the M/PIFCD reported.
The district also stated that EMS and Lee Control (dispatch) provided support on the scene and firefighters from the Cape Coral Fire Department provided station coverage while island crews worked the fire.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.