Seventh Red Bulb Placed on Wreath During "Keep the Wreath Green"

Escambia County Fire Rescue has now placed seven red bulbs on the wreaths after 13 days of "Keep the Wreath Green" following Monday evening's residential structure fire that displaced one occupant. 

At 7:35 p.m. on Monday, Escambia County Fire Rescue units E11, E17, E16, SQ14, E12 and SQ3 responded to a residential structure fire at the 700 block of N 77th Ave. Upon arrival, crews witnessed a home in flames, covering about 50% of the home. Four hose lines were used to attack the fire and to prevent the flames from spreading to other occupied homes. During the effort, the roof collapsed, adding additional complications while putting out the fire. ECFR units managed to get the fire under control by 8:44 p.m. Fortunately, there were no injuries or fatalities. The home, however, is a total loss. The cause of the fire is being investigated by the Bureau of Fire and Arson.

If your home does not have a working smoke detector, please call Escambia County Fire Rescue at 850-595-HERO (4376) or 850-436-5200 for city of Pensacola residents.

The “Keep the Wreath Green” fire safety campaign is a collaborative initiative with the city of Pensacola to promote fire safety during the month of December. During the month-long campaign, five-foot wreaths are on display at 21 county fire stations and five city fire stations, as well as Escambia County's Ernie Lee Magaha Government Building downtown, the Escambia County Public Safety Building and Pensacola City Hall. Each time firefighters respond to a residential fire with damage, a green light bulb will be replaced with a red one to remind citizens of the dangers posed by fires in residential home. For more tips on how to stay safe during the holiday season, visit myescambia.com/KeepTheWreathGreen.

Safety Tips: 

Escambia County Fire Rescue encourages everyone to practice fire safety especially during the holiday season. Residents are encouraged to follow these safety tips so everyone can have a safe and happy holiday:

• Remember to blow out all candles when you leave the room or go to bed.
• Avoid the use of candles in the bedroom and other areas where people may fall asleep.
• Remember to check the wires of appliances regularly and to replace or repair frayed, damages cables.
• Unplug all small electrical appliances, such as irons and toasters when not in use.
• Check smoke detectors regularly to make sure they are working properly.
• Communicate an escape plan to other members of the household in the event of a fire.

For fire safety tips and other updates from Escambia County Fire Rescue, like Escambia County Fire Rescue on Facebook.

Pictures courtesy of Shannon's Firetography