On the first hot and humid day of the upcoming summer season the West Grove Fire Company pagers heated up as well. The Union Fire Company was alerted to a house fire at 3:19 PM on May 25th in Lower Oxford. The initial dispatch requested mutual aid of one engine from our company. While responding, Chief 21 noted heavy smoke in the air. Upon arrival he found a 2 story log cabin with half the structure showing heavy fire. A working fire was broadcasted and additional units from West Grove were requested. Despite the call for aid occurring on a weekday afternoon, the company was able to mount a sizable response with an additional engine, ladder, tanker and brush truck being staffed. Firefighters were met with several challenges at the fire ground, but despite this, the fire was knocked down quickly. The heat and humidity limited the time each crew could engage the fire. This resulted in one firefighter from Quarryville developing a medical emergency that required transportation to the hospital.

A long, steep winding driveway leads to the dwelling. Most equipment needed to be hand carried. This included heavy saws, ladders, air packs and drinking water. Firefighters were grateful to the local Amish community who showed great resilience in assisting with these carries.

Special thanks to the Modena Fire Company who relocated to Station 22 for the duration of the event to cover our local district.

Cover photo courtesy of Union Fire Company. Other photos by Todd Mazur