On Wednesday, December 23rd, At 20:43 hrs (8:43 pm), the East Whiteland Fire Company was alerted to assist St. 61 (Kimberton) on a second alarm house fire.

Originally, St. 61 along with Stations 47 (Lionville) and St. 73 (Ludwigs Corner) were dispatched at 20:18 hrs (8:18 pm) to the 1700 Block of Art School Rd for a reported house fire. Initial reports indicated a heater malfunction with flames visible, and the resident attempting to extinguish the fire with a fire extinguisher. Within moments of dispatch, the police arrived on location and advised of heavy smoke in the area. Chief 61 (D. Gable) arrived on location, confirmed a working fire, established “Artschool Rd. Command,” and requested a second alarm to be stuck to bring in additional resources. The Second alarm brought Engine 65 (Phoenixville), Engine 5-5, Rescue 68 and Engine 68-5 (Valley Forge), and Ambulance 87 (Uwchland).

Crews encountered fire spreading throughout the house, as the style of home was “balloon frame” construction, where long continuous framing members (studs) run from basement to roof.

The fire was finally declared under control at 22:00 hrs (10 pm).

The East Whiteland Fire Company wishes to extend it’s condolences to the family who lost their home during this holiday season.

Story by Mike Schon. Pictures courtesy of Lionville Fire Co.

 

Apparatus:

• St. 5: Engine 5-5
• St. 47: Engine 47-2, Tower 47, Squad 47
• St. 61: Engine 61-1, Tower 61, Rescue 61, Traffic 61
• St. 65: Engine 65
• St. 67: MICU 67-2
• St. 68: Engine 68-5, Rescue 68
• St. 73: Engine 73-1, Engine 73-2, Rescue 73, Tanker 73, Traffic 73