Reading PA Fire Department

Shortly after 20:00hrs tonight, Engine 8 (5), Snorkel 1 (Twr 1) and Car 6 were dispatched for a report of an audible alarm at 211 So. 5th Street. The apparatus arrived and a crew went into the building to investigate.

 Upon entering the 3rd floor firefighters encountered smoke and visible flames and called for an 1 3/4 handline. A line was pulled off the engine and advanced into the building. Car 6 called for the box alarm. Box 14 was struck which brought out Engines 3, 1 and 14 safety, Ladder 1, Rescue 1, medic 602 and Car 3.

Additional crews were sent into the building to assist with the fire which had been blackened down. Firefighters opened up the walls and ceiling to check for extension and ventilated the 3rd floor. After wetting down the area the fire was placed under control.

The fire involved a room on the 3rd floor and began in trash. An official cause was not released at the time. There were no reported injuries and it is unknown if anyone was displaced from the unit.

Police were called to respond across the street from the fire where a pick-up truck was parked directly in front of the hydrant. Firefighters slid the hose underneath the vehicle to access the hydrant. The owner of the vehicle was on the scene and was issued a citation.

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