Cherry Hill Structure Fire

On 1/25/2013 around 2100hrs DTVFD volunteers staffing Engine 503B and Battalion 507 were dispatched to a structure fire off Cherry Hill Road. Initial reports given to the dispatcher stated that the living room was on fire due to an incident with the fireplace. While units were responding another update was given by a second caller stating flames could be seen from the windows. Due to the rural area a tanker taskforce was called to supply the units with water.

Engine 523 arrived on scene with a report of fire from all windows, fire through the roof and the residents out of the structure. E503B took secondary assignment as back up line and supplied E523. Both units attempted to bring the fire under control with 1 3/4 handlines. Progress was being made by both units and the crews were able to enter the home briefly to attack the fire in the center of the home. Conditions quickly deteriorated and both units exited the structure and continued a defensive attack.

With the help of Engine 512 and several tankers more handlines were used to contain the fire and cool down propane tanks close to the home. All units worked together to soak the house down and search for hidden fires. Once the units were sure there were no more embers burning and the tanks were secured, Battalion 507 began to clear units from the scene. The remaining units helped roll hose and pick up equipment.

A special thank you to all the volunteers who came to the scene with salt/sand trucks, heaters, and the rehab trailer.