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Family Escapes House Fire Started By Child

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TBO.com

Published: December 13, 2008

Tampa - A mother and her four children escaped unharmed this morning from a house fire started by one of the youngsters, fire officials said.

Fire crews responded to the blaze at 3613 E. Paris St. about 10:10 a.m. and had it under control within 10 minutes.

Investigators said Keisha Harris, 34, was home with her children, ages 2 to 17, when she heard the smoke alarm in the hallway. Harris thought the heater had set off the alarm but her 11-year-old son told her his bedroom was on fire.

Harris threw water on the flames but couldn't extinguish them.

Her 6-year-old son told investigators he had been playing with a lighter and set some paper on fire and stuck it under a bed. His 11-year-old brother awoke and discovered the flames.

Damage was estimated at $23,000, and the American Red Cross was helping the family with clothing and temporary shelter.

The 6-year-old will be referred to the Juvenile Firesetter's Program for counseling, officials said.

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