Palm Harbor, FL – March 27, 2025 – A fire at The Vue Lake Tarpon, located at 37611 US Hwy 19 N, was contained early this morning by the building’s fire sprinkler system. Fire investigators determined the fire, which started at approximately 4:10 a.m., was caused by a female occupant falling asleep while smoking in bed.
The fire alarm activated, prompting a neighbor to break down the door and rescue the occupant. The sprinkler system extinguished the flames before they could spread beyond the room. Emergency responders transported the occupant to a local hospitsl for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.
Smoking in bed is a significant fire hazard, as falling asleep with a lit cigarette can quickly ignite bedding and other flammable materials. Officials emphasize that this incident highlights the importance of fire sprinklers and working fire alarms in preventing major damage and protecting lives.