| At 1412 hours the West Grove Fire Company was dispatched for an Engine and Tanker to assist Cecil County MD, Elkton Stations 3, 13, 14 on a reported house fire in the vicinity of Interstate I-95 on Rt 213.
Engine 12-1 and Tanker 22 responded within 3 minutes after being alerted. Cecil County Fireboard advised the structure was a working fire. Chief 3 then went on location with heavy fire on the second floor of the dwelling.
Upon the arrival of Engine 12-1 and Tanker 22, the fire conditions were worsening for the crews already on-scene battling the blaze. As a result, the emergency evacuation procedures were initiated and all manpower were removed from the building and accountability was checked. Both West Grove units immediately pumped their water tanks to the fire scene, giving them a much needed 4000 gallons. Engine 12-1's crew reported to the Command Post where they were instructed to assist with exterior fire suppression until the bulk of the fire was knocked down. Tanker 22 and Rising Sun Tanker 8 placed both of their portable water tanks into service to establish a constant water supply to the fire scene.
When the majority of the fire was contained from the exterior, Engine 12-1's crew was assigned to the second floor sector to search for any fire extension and work on overhaul. The fire was placed under control by Chief 3 and the cause is under investigation by the Maryland State Police Fire Marshals Office.
West Grove Fire Company units cleared at 1630 hours.
**Special thanks to Bob Norman of Singerly Fire Company for the pictures of the fire.** |
