Valdosta House Fire Displaces Five, Claims Family Pet
On Friday, March 7, 2025, at approximately 11:30 a.m., the Valdosta Fire Department responded to a structure fire at 900 Madison Hwy. The first fire unit arrived within two minutes to find heavy flames and smoke coming from a single-family residence.
A total of twenty-seven fire personnel worked to bring the fire under control and conducted a search, confirming no occupants remained inside. One resident sustained minor injuries and was treated on scene by SGMC Health EMS. A canine did not survive the fire.
Five occupants were displaced as a result of the fire and are receiving assistance from the American Red Cross. Valdosta Police assisted with on-scene operations.
The fire was determined to be caused by unattended cooking.
The Valdosta Fire Department reminds residents that unattended cooking is a leading cause of home fires and encourages everyone to follow these safety tips to prevent cooking-related fires:
- Never leave cooking food unattended. If you must leave the kitchen, turn off the stove.
- Keep flammable materials such as towels, paper products, and oven mitts away from the stovetop.
- Use a timer to remind yourself when food is cooking.
- If a small grease fire occurs, smother it by sliding a lid over the pan and turning off the burner. Never use water to extinguish a grease fire.
- Ensure working smoke alarms are installed in or near the kitchen.
