At 7:18 pm during a Company “financial planning meeting”, the pre-alert went out for a house fire at 208 South Summit Avenue in Quarryville Borough. Units were on the street immediately at dispatch. Chief 57 arrived with a working basement fire in a two-story dwelling. The first alarm consisted of QFD, Bart Township Fire Company, Rawlinsville Volunteer Fire Company, Willow Street Fire Co and Lancaster EMS. Chief 57 also requested the working fire dispatch.
Engine 574 arrived with the crew stretching a line to side “C” and entered the first floor to find the interior basement stairs. The other half of E-4’s crew forced the bilco basement doors and the interior basement door. The line crew made quick work of the fire that consumed most of the basement. Additional crews laddered the building and prepared for roof ventilation if needed. The engine had a supply from Tanker 57 and a hydrant in the front yard. Rescue 57 stretched an additional line for backup/upper floor use if needed. QFD, neighboring Fire Police and Squad 572 controlled traffic around the scene.
Additional crews from Refton Fire Company 5-9, Robert Fulton Fire Company, Union Fire Company No. 1 ~ Oxford, PA and Cochranville Fire Company assisted in overhaul, lighting and ventilation.
A small dog was rescued from the stairs between the first and second floor by QFD firefighters and resuscitated by crews working together with EMS. The dog was transported to a veterinarian for treatment.
The fire was knocked down quickly, and the incident was placed under control at 8:02 pm. The cause of the fire was ruled accidental/electrical.
Thanks to all the members who responded and to all of the QFD Special Division members for the drinks. Another fine example of local Fire, EMS and Police working together for the best outcome. Thanks to Annie Sheaffer for some of the photos.
