| On Sunday, at 1115, E517 (D/O Hartman, OIC Campbell, FF Griffin, & FF Santiago) was dispatched to a brush fire behind several homes on Vista Drive. Upon arrival E517's crew met the callers and proceeded through some woods into an opening which led to a clearing for power line towers. Dense smoke and flames were seen covering approximately one acre. As E517's crew began battling the blaze; large wind gusts carried the fire quickly into dry areas beyond their reach.
Assistance was requested for local brush units and an additional engine company was added to resupply water. Access to the location was difficult and delayed incoming support units. E517's crew was forced to make a defensive stance north of the fire as it neared structures to the northwest. Capt. 503 (Gudaitis) arrived and established "Vista" command.
Brush 506 arrived on scene and with assistance of E517's crew, made a quick mobile attack.
BC507 (Young) and FM523 arrived on Vista Drive to speak with the callers and two juveniles, which were also in the area. BC507 requested a medic unit to treat one of the juveniles who suffered minor burns as a result of the fire.
Capt. 503 requested a fill pumper, and B503 (D/O Reha & FF Talley) arrived a short while later to assist with extinguishment. Although spreading quickly, after forty minutes the fire was knocked down and under control. All crews then began raking and saturating the field to prevent a rekindle.
All units went ready at 1235 and M513 transported one patient to Potomac Hospital. FM523 and FM521 remained on scene to further investigate the possible cause of the blaze. Approximately 3-4 acres were burned and only one minor injury was reported. Due to quick actions by all involved, potential loss of homes and property was prevented. |
