06/10/2006 - South Fayette - 2 Alarm Structure Fire

Union Avenue Extension

Called by Allegheny County Dispatch for a confirmed structure fire on Union Ave Ext. at 00:38. Stations 215 (Oakdale), 267 (Sturgeon), Station 269, and 209 (North Fayette) were dispatched. Chief 215 first unit on scene, responding from home. Chief reported a 2 story wood frame structure, with heavy smoke, and flame already through the roof. Chief 215 requested Truck 310 (Mcdonald) and Station125 (presto) for RIT. E215-1 was on scene about 30 seconds later, and hit hydrant at Union Ave. (Oakdale side), and proceeded to the fire scene. Order was given to attack with one 1-3/4" and one 2-1/2" line. Attack crew had to break out window of front door for access. Police on scene reported that it was thought that all occupants were out of the structure. First in crews found no fire on the first floor, proceeded upstair to fire area. Steps led into a hallway, heavy flame in hall. Bedroom at the end of the hall was totally involved. Fire was extinguished in upstairs rooms, but there was extensive fire in the attic area. Engine 125 laid line from hydrant On Union Ave (S.Fayette twp side) to Truck 310. Truck 310 raised ladder for operation. Effort to control fire in attic wasn't making headway, from outside, roof began looking compromised. Order was given to evacuate the structure at 00:57. Truck 310's waterway was used to knock down fire from an exterior attack. Waterway was then shut down and crews entered structure to attempt to finish extinguishment. Efforts fell behind once again, and Truck 310 once again made an exterior attack. Interior crews were then able to complete extinguishment. Fire was put cautiously under control by Chief 215 at 1:28. Crews then began extensive overhaul operations. Request to notify utilities at 1:00. Request for Allegheny County fire marshal at 1:34. Fire marshal investigated and determined short in wiring on second floor to be cause. No injuries to firefighters or occupants.

Photos and report by Perry Aston