28/July/2012 – Structure Fire – “A” Shift

Incident # 12-04115 – A home located at 903 Francis Street was destroyed by a fire at 05:18 Saturday morning 28-July. 9-1-1 callers reported the burning home near the intersection of Francis Streets and Barracada Road. Francis Street begins the east City of Walterboro limits. Fire-Rescue units were dispatched to the incident, however a Walterboro Public Safety Officer arrived first to verify the location was actually located in the City limits. Fire-Rescue units being only a few minutes from the scene continued their response, while Walterboro Public Safety units were notified. Car 118 arrived to find the older wooden structure approximately 80% involved, with a good portion of the home already collapsed. Only a small rear bedroom and the front porch remained standing. Engine 19 deployed two 1-3/4 handlines with crews quickly knocking down the remaining fire. Walterboro units arrived minutes later and both agencies began overhaul operations. 

The single occupant advised firefighters that he fell asleep on the porch. He remembered cooking food and must have left it on the stove. He was awakened by the heat and smoke and was able to safely exit the burning building. He was not injured. Fire units from both agencies remained on the scene for 2-1/2 hours. The Charleston Chapter of the American Red Cross is assisting the man.

Engine 1, Engine 19, Tender 1, Tender 19, Tender 27, Medic 19, Battalion 1, Car 12 and Car 118 responded. Battalion Chief Brent Dalton served as Incident Commander. Walterboro Engine 1, Engine 2 and Engine 3 responded.