Orange County Fire Rescue and Lake County Fire Rescue units, in collaboration with the Florida Forest Service, successfully contained a brush fire near the Schofield Road and State Road 429 area on Saturday afternoon. The incident, which prompted a swift response, is now 100% contained, with no evacuations required and no reported damage to nearby structures.

Many local Horizon West residents posted on social media photos of the smoke plume, often wondering if it was a controlled burn or an actual wildfire.

Schofield Road was closed for several hours due to the emergency response. Southern Hill Farms remained open during the event, but could only be accessed from the west.

This incident highlights the importance of emergency preparedness and the tireless work of first responders who work to protect communities from unexpected hazards. Local authorities remind residents to stay vigilant during Florida’s dry season and to have a home fire escape plan.

Fire suppression items such as a fire extinguisher, kitchen aerosol spray extinguisher, or fire blanket are small and affordable items to keep your home protected in the event of a fire emergency.

Photo Credit: Orange County Fire Rescue Department, Florida from Reserve FF Bill Ellis.