After an early morning brush fire, residents evacuated from the Arc Jacksonville Villages, a community for adults with disabilities.

Nine individuals were safely evacuated from the Arc Jacksonville Villages following a brush fire on Jacksonville’s Southside. Kari Bates, President of the Arc, expressed gratitude for the swift response from Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department (JFRD) and their team’s efforts in ensuring everyone’s safety.

Origin and Response to the Fire

The Florida Forest Service reported that the fire originated from a warming fire at a homeless camp in the nearby woods. Action News Jax observed burnt clothing and shopping carts near the woods, indicating the location of the camp. Bates highlighted the rapid response of emergency services, with the fire department promptly addressing the situation upon notification.

Fortunately, there were no damages to the properties in the vicinity, and no injuries were reported as a result of the incident.

City’s Response and Policies

In response to inquiries regarding the city’s policies concerning homeless camps and ensuring public safety, a City of Jacksonville spokesperson provided insights into their approach. The city clarified that while they do not maintain a comprehensive list of homeless camps due to their transient nature, they rely on citizen reports to address any safety concerns or disturbances caused by these camps.

Regarding fire incidents, the city reiterated its commitment to public safety, with first responders promptly addressing any reported incidents. The spokesperson highlighted the collaborative efforts between the City of Jacksonville and the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office in investigating and potentially clearing any unsafe elements within homeless camps. Additionally, Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department (JFRD) maintains strategic fire stations across the county to ensure swift response times in emergency situations.

Conclusion

The brush fire incident underscores the complex challenges associated with homelessness and public safety in Jacksonville. While swift response from emergency services mitigated the immediate risks, the incident prompts further discussion on strategies to address homelessness and ensure the safety of vulnerable communities in the area.

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