Fire damaged two properties on the same Clearwater block early Tuesday afternoon.
The fire was reported shortly before 12:30 p.m., and thick black smoke could be seen for miles from the scene near U.S. 19 and State Road 590.
First responders reported heavy smoke coming from two structures: a garage behind 1505 Virginia Lane W. and house at 1501 Virginia Lane W. A utility pole was also on fire.
Clearwater Police units that arrived on the scene helped evacuate nearby houses because of the fear of the fire spreading beyond the two properties. Gusty winds helped fan the flames and sent embers floating in various directions.
Quick work by Clearwater firefighters, along with those from Safety Harbor, Largo, Dunedin and St. Petersburg, limited the fire to those two properties.
Duke Energy workers were on-scene to assess and assist with the damaged power pole and power lines on the property.
A Clearwater Police officer rescued a dog named Beavis from one of the residences. No injuries were reported.
Investigators are working to try to determine where the blaze started.