Fire at 813 Day Ave.

Thanks to FF Daniel Goodwin for the pictures

The Roanoke Fire-EMS Department responded to a residential structure fire on January 27, 2006 at 813 Day Ave.

The call was received through the 9-1-1 Center at approximately 3:42 a.m. The call was upgraded to a second alarm fire. The response of six Engines, two Ladder trucks, three Medic Units, one EMS Captain, one Investigative Unit, the Fire Marshal, the Assistant Fire Marshal, two Administrative Chiefs, and two Battalion Chiefs for a total of 39 personnel responded to the scene. The fire was deemed under control at 6:44 a.m.

Upon arrival, crews found heavy smoke and fire coming from the structure. When crews gained entry to the residence they were met with heavy heat and fire conditions which forced them to exit the structure and make an exterior attack. The fire extended to the second floor and roof. The fire then spread to adjacent buildings on the left and right side. The exposure at 809 Day Ave. sustained minor interior damage and the exposure at 815 Day Ave. sustained no interior damage, but minor exterior damage.

No one was inside the building when the fire started. There were no injuries to civilians. A firefighter sustained minor injuries after falling through the floor. He was treated at the scene and then returned to firefighting duties shortly after.

The cause and the origin of the fire are still under investigation. At this time the structure has been ruled unsafe to enter, suspending the investigation. When conditions improve, the investigation into the cause of the fire will resume. Preliminary damage estimates are approximately $65,000.

From what I hear, FF Randy Smith is who fell through the floor, and he was not injured in the fall.