Victim rescued from fire in Palm Harbor
Photo by PHFR
Palm Harbor, FL – March 27, 2025 – An early morning fire at The Vue Lake Tarpon, situated at 37611 US Hwy 19 N, was successfully contained by the building's fire sprinkler system. Fire officials reported that the blaze ignited around 4:10 a.m. and was attributed to a female resident who fell asleep while smoking in bed.
Firefighters discovered the victim on the floor after a civilian attempted a rescue but had to retreat due to the heavy smoke. The firefighters removed the victim from the room, and she received medical attention for burns and smoke inhalation.
Jason Haynes is a highly trained professional with a proven track record of leadership and selfless service. Committed to the fire service and members of Palm Harbor Fire Rescue by following the core values of his organization through professionalism, integrity, service, leadership, and innovation. Chief Haynes has been a certified firefighter since 1993 and currently serves as the Division Chief of Training and Safety with Palm Harbor Fire Rescue. Jason has been with Palm Harbor Fire Rescue for the last 22 years, holding various positions such as Firefighter EMT/Paramedic, Driver/Operator, Lieutenant, and Division Chief of Training and Safety for the past six years. Prior to Palm Harbor Fire Rescue, Jason worked for Belleair Bluffs Fire Department, and Indian Rocks Beach Fire Department as a firefighter EMT. Jason holds an associate degree in Fire Science from St. Petersburg College, where he is also an instructor at the Fire Academy. Jason holds certificates in Florida for Fire Officer II, Fire Inspector II, Fire Instructor, Fire Investigator, Driver Operator, Live Fire Instructor, and Paramedic.