Firefighters contain brush fire in New Tampa

TAMPA -- Firefighters from Tampa have contained a sizeable brush fire in the area of Cory Lake Isles in New Tampa.

Tampa Fire Rescue spokesman Jace Kohan said the fire, first described as being the size of a football field, was contained by 10 p.m. without any homes being threatened.

"At this time of year, it's so dry, you have to get out and jump on it quickly," Kohan said.

Two TFR engine companies and two brush trucks worked the scene after being first alerted about the blaze around 8:30 p.m. By 10 p.m., the only one brush truck was needed and Pasco County firefighters who had been called out for assistance earlier in the night were canceled.

Kohan said firefighters had a little bit of trouble accessing the blaze at first. But by 10 p.m., they were just mopping up the hot spots.

- Rebecca Catalanello, Times staff writer