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Viral Video Shows Tortoise Fleeing Fullerton Shed Fire as Owners Urge Heat-Lamp Safety

The recovering sulcata is receiving breathing treatments after smoke inhalation.

Overview

  • A heat lamp reportedly tipped over on Feb. 8 and ignited substrate in a backyard shed in Fullerton, California.
  • The family was at a Super Bowl gathering when neighbors spotted the blaze and extinguished it with water.
  • Security cameras captured Leo hustling out of the burning shed, and the TikTok post drew roughly three million views by Feb. 12.
  • Veterinarians in Anaheim Hills are treating mild smoke inhalation with saline breathing therapy, antibiotics and steroids, with a guarded but improving outlook reported by the owner.
  • The habitat was destroyed, and the family says they plan to build a safer enclosure as they warn other reptile owners to secure heat lamps.