Crews responded to the site of the former Georgetown apartments near West Shore and Gandy around 4:45 Friday afternoon. Multiple units including five brush trucks were dispatched to the scene. Tampa Police Air Service provided a downlink of live imagery of the fire to assist in the firefighting effort. Favorable winds helped the burn move toward the water and prevent damage to existing structures.
It is estimated that 50 acres were involved. There were no injuries to firefighters. It is unknown what started the blaze. The fire is under control. Fifteen units with 30 firefighters were on scene to fight the fire. This incident is another reminder that great care should be taken with regard to fires during Florida's dry season.
The City of Tampa has a permanent ban on open fires.