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Fireworks suspected in Roof Fire |
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Written by Administrator
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July 03, 2006 |
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Box 78 was dispatched at 22:33 for a reported roof fire at 313 Schuylkill Avenue. Car 6 arrived on location and confirmed fire along the roof line and around a protrusion on the roof of a 2 1/2 story end of row. Radio acknowledged him and relayed a message from the Fire Marshal that this building was listed exterior attack only.
Box 78 was dispatched at 22:33 for a reported roof fire at 313 Schuylkill Avenue, Engines 3, 1, 5, Ladder 1, Tower 1, Rescue 2, Engine 9 safety and Medic 601 along with Cars 3 and 6 responded. Car 6 arrived on location and confirmed fire along the roof line and around a protrusion on the roof of a 2 1/2 story end of row. Radio acknowledged him and relayed a message from the Fire Marshal that this building was listed exterior attack only. Car 3 acknowledged the information and corrected the address as 313 1/2 Schuylkill and directed Ladder 1 to set up for aerial operations.
An 1 3/4 handline was advanced along with crews ascending to the roof. Once on the roof, firefighters noticed the entire surface was covered with plastic tarps, over the decking, in an attempt to divert water from the recent heavy rains. What was burning was a skylight type protrusion described as a widow's watch, and much of the plastic surrounding it. The fire was quickly extinguished and while overhauling, crews on the roof delighted in the spectacular displays of illegal fireworks going off all over the city. Fireworks were also suspected in starting the fire on the roof.
The incident was placed under control within 25 minutes and units cleared the scene shortly after. Car 3 reported that the building was being renovated and is questionable for a list of unstable structures and that it was occupied, he noted that the two adjoining buildings at 311 and 313 had been torn down and could be removed as well.
Thanks to Jason Coleman-Cobb from Capitalcityfirephotos.com for sending us these pictures.
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