“C” Shift – Structure Fire

Run # 10-04933 – Stations 1, 4, 7, 15, 18, 19, 26 and 31 responded to a two alarm fire in a single family residential structure Monday morning 6-September at 05:25. Engine 18 and Medic 18 arrived to find heavy smoke conditions, with flames through the roof of the older wood frame building. The single story structure had several additions. All occupants had safely exited the building. Firefighters deployed two 1-3/4 handlines and one 2-1/2 handline to combat the fire. Interior crews were met with heavy fire conditions throughout the “A”, “C” and “D” sides, inside the structure. Heavy fire conditions were evident throughout the attic as well. Power lines along the roadway and across the yard prevented the use of deck guns.  Access to the building was limited.

A second alarm was issued at 05:43 for additional manpower and Tenders. Firefighters worked for over 35 minutes to bring the fire under control. Three bedrooms on the “B” side of the structure contained salvageable items, but most of the residence received extensive damage. It appeared the cause of the fire was

electrical in nature and originated in a bonus room near the back door; burned inside a wall and then into the attic. Four occupants were at home at the time of the fire. One occupant had gotten to up early and smelled smoke. Upon investigation, she discovered the fire in the rear of the home. The house was not equipped with smoke detectors. The Charleston Chapter of the American Red Cross is assisting the family. Fire units remained on the scene for four hours.

Engine 18, Engine 31, Tender 1, Tender 4, Tender 7, Tender 15, Tender 18, Tender 19, Tender 26, Medic 18, Medic 26, Battalion 1, Car 12 and Car 17 responded. Firefighter-Paramedic Brian Rowe served as Incident Commander.