Photos and article by Gaby Richmond-Reck
During the early morning hours of 21 January, members of Independence (KS) Fire/EMS were alarmed for a reported fire on the patio of a single-story wood-frame dwelling. Upon arrival, crews found heavy fire on the front porch of the residence.
The family father met with the arriving firefighters and confirmed that all of the residents had left the home. Windows on the “A” side of the home had been compromised allowing the fire access to the kitchen and living room of the home. Live power lines were down on the “D” side of the building.
Attic Fires: Hazards from Above
Crews knocked down the fire on the porch and pushed into the front rooms. As ceilings were opened it was noted that fire had advanced into the attic of the home.
Because of the age of the home, recent remodeling and several additions having been added to the home, there were multiple roofs and ceilings to contend with which caused the fire to obtain a substantial foot hold before it could be extinguished.
Due to single-digit temperatures with a wind chill of minus 12, mutual aid from Montgomery County Rural Fire district #1 was requested to provide fresh manpower at the scene.
Rapid Fire Spread at Private Dwelling Fires
Total response to the fire was three engines, one Quint, two ALS ambulances, and two command units and a total of 21 firefighters.
Cause of the fire is listed as unknown and is under investigation.
See more photos from this fire HERE.
