Reading PA Fire Department

Engine 1, Tower 1 and Car 6 were dispatched just after 04:00 this morning to an automatic fire alarm at the Genesius theater, 153 No. 10th Street. Upon arrival the crew members entered the building to check the alarm and encountered a heavy smoke condition. Car 6 immediately called for the box alarm.

Responding on the box were Engines 13, 3 and 9, Ladder 1, Rescue 1 and a med unit. Medic 601 arrived on location at the alley in the rear of the structure and reported visible fire in the rear. Meanwhile, the crew from Engine 1 had pulled a 1 3/4 attack line and advanced it through the building toward the rear of the stage area. Fire was discovered in a carpentry shop located in the rear, just off the side of the stage. A small fire was visible around a window and heavy smoke was pushing from the wall. Outside, plywood covering the window was burning. The plywood was pulled away and the ceiling was opened to check for hidden fire. The fire was quickly extinguished with minimal damage to the structure, not considering the smoke throughout. Several PPVs were set up to clear the building of smoke. The fire marshal responded and is investigating, companies cleared by 05:15.

The large century old building was once the home of the North East Republican Club which relocated to No. 11th Street, according to Fire Chief William Rehr. There are large rooms on the first floor, and of course, the theater area with the stage and a balcony above which wraps around the interior. The lower level contains a bar room and other large areas. Rehr said the fire alarm system was installed a few years ago during a partial renovation.

The Genesius formed in the early 1970s. The group runs a number of events each year and some fire department members and their families participate as actors and helpers. You can read more about their performances on their website, http://www.genesius.dweephor.com/

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