First Responders Rescue People and Puppies From Brush Fires Near Tampa

First responders worked to save people, puppies, and homes from brush fires in Hillsborough County, Florida, on Sunday, February 15.

The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) released this footage showing crews evacuating a structure in Plant City, Florida, located about 23 miles east of Tampa, as heavy smoke moved into the area. The footage also shows the moment residents and small puppies were evacuated in Wimauma, south of Plant City.

On X, the sheriff’s office wrote that HCSO’s aviation unit, Hillsborough County Fire Rescue, the Tampa Police Department, and the Florida Forest Service responded to brush fires in the area. HCSO said they dropped 19,600 gallons of water as the fires threatened homes.

“While pilots worked overhead, ground deputies evacuated residents and pets. No injuries reported, just seamless teamwork from air to ground,” HCSO wrote. Credit: Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office via Storyful