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Release Number: 09-186

For Immediate Release

Public Information Office

June 5, 2009

jcallaway@hcso.tampa.fl.us

(813) 247-8060

HCSO Deputy Extinguishes House Fire; Treated For Smoke Inhalation

A Hillsborough County Sheriff's Deputy sustained smoke inhalation this morning when he put out a fire inside a house and then checked all of the rooms of the smoke-filled structure for occupants. Deputy Allan Geer was taken by Hillsborough Fire Rescue to Tampa General Hospital, treated and released to go home.

Deputy Geer responded to 9101 Hidden Water Circle, Tampa, around 9:30 a.m.

after a neighbor reported the burglar alarm had been activated. Deputy Geer arrived at the residence and noted a van was parked in the driveway. Neighbors told him they were not sure if anyone was inside. As he surveyed the exterior Deputy Geer noticed smoke coming from inside the residence. He reported to our Communications Center that the residence was on fire around 9:47 a.m. Deputy Geer got a fire extinguisher from his patrol car and entered the residence through a rear door. He extinguished the smoldering fire and then began to check the rooms for residents. He was overcome by the smoke and ran outside for fresh air. Once he got his breath again, he returned inside to finish checking the last couple of rooms for anyone inside. There was no one inside.

Deputy Geer made his way back outside and collapsed as Fire Rescue arrived on the scene. Paramedics treated him and transported him to TGH.

The owners of the house, who were away for the weekend, were notified and enroute back to their residence.

Deputy Geer is a 13.5-year veteran of the Sheriff's Office, and is 58 years old.