Firefighter Falls in Water Battling Boat Fire

A blaze early Wednesday morning destroyed a 40 ft. boat at the in Palm Harbor's Ozona community.

Palm Harbor Fire Rescue Spokesperson Liz Monforti says neighbors heard a crackling sound and called 911 around 5:15 am. The boat was moored in a covered dock at the marina. The dock has a metal roof, which held the heat and flames underneath the roof, creating a dangerous situation. However, firefighters were able to put out the blaze quickly. The owner of the marina praised firefighters for their quick response, saying the outcome could have been much worse.

No one was on board the boat when it caught fire and no firefighters were injured battling the blaze. But, the fire proved just how hazardous a firefighter's job can be. When battling the blaze, firefighters had to walk in an unlit area, on sections of the dock that were only a few feet wide, while carrying at least 50 lbs. of gear. One firefighter fell in the water and quickly remembered how he should react in this type of situation.

"He fell in face first, he was able to tuck his knees to his chest, roll to his side and turn on his back and float. The other crew members got him to a ladder on a nearby boat and helped him out of the water," said Monforti.

Monforti says firefighters learn how to keep safe in these situations by practicing the maneuver during training sessions in a pool.

"His training, it came right into play and he was able to get out," she said.

Fire investigators are looking into the cause of the blaze. The fire caused so much damage to the boat, it sank in the water. Wednesday morning, crews were working to pull it out. A Hazmat crew also put a boom in the water to contain any fuel that may have spilled during the blaze.

The Home Port Marina is located at 135 Orange St. N.