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C platoon had their hands busy this afternoon when Box 29 was struck. Around 1153 communications reported a kitchen fire with possible entrapment at 161 Clymer street. As companies began to arrive, 2nd Deputy Chief Sands requested a 2nd alarm at 1158.
The property sat on a hillside off of Clymer street approx 100' from the street. The large 3 story "L" shaped building had fire showing from every window across the front of the property. In the early stages of the fire, water pressure hampered firefighting efforts due. A humat valve connected by Engine 14 was used to assist in the pressure drop.
Multiple attack lines were pulled from Engine 1, stripping it of most of its hose. Engine 5 was ordered by Chief Rehr to take the hydrant on Eckert Ave uphill and behind the property. A supply line was hand stretched down through several properties to provide additional water to Engine 1 as well as supply a step gun. At the Height of the fire Engine 1 was supplying 4 handlines, a 2 1/2" attack line, and a line to Tower 1.
Initially the Tower was advised they would not make the long driveway. However, the unit was eventually maneuvered around 2 large brick pillars which adorned the driveway. Firefighters were withdrawn from the building, as fire continued to build in the 3rd floor. Both streams were used from the platform in an attempt to stop the bulk of the fire which had taken control of the 3rd floor.
The fire was eventually put under control with a large amount of overhaul at 1424. As the Fire Marshals office began their investigation and removal of debris at the site, units were sent back to the scene.
The building was the site of a previous fire in the early 80's
Photos by Brett Mack, the rest can be found here at his site!
Click Here For Our Photos by Jason Batz
Companies On The Box:
Engines - 1, 5, 14, 11
Tower 1, Rescue 1, Car's 1, 6, 10, 22, 23, 24
County EMS unit from Muhlenberg
Second Alarm Companies:
Engines - 13, 3
Snorkel 1 (running in place of Ladder 1)
Car 7
County EMS unit from Exeter
3rd Alarm Companies:
Engine 9, 12
Ladder 3
Car's 4, 8
County for Spring Township Fire Department Rehab Unit
4th Alarm (was handled as special calls)
Engines 2, 8
ONLY REMAINING UNIT IN SERVICE WAS RESCUE 2 WITH 4 FIREFIGHTERS
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