Structure Fire, Philadelphia Ave, Shillington
 
By Deputy Chief Rick Schartel
October 9, 2021
 

On Saturday afternoon, October 9, TSFRS Engine 85 and Wyo FD Ladder 79 were dispatched to Philadelphia Ave in Shillington Boro on a mutual aid assist to Shillington Station 36 with a structure fire with entrapment. While enroute, BCCC confirmed working fire with entrapment. Both units responded from a fire in Wyomissing that was just clearing.

E85 under Capt McCardell arrived on location as third arriving with heavy fire showing and assisted E36 with stretching a hose line for fire attack. E85s driver established a water supply, and two additional hose lines were pulled. Heavy fire was found on the first and second floor. E85 members assisted with search and rescue and later overhauled the 2nd floor.

L79 under Capt Yeager responded, arrived on scene and positioned on the Franklin Street side of the three-story semi-detached residence, with heavy fire conditions observed throughout. L79s crewmen threw ground ladders and assisted with fire attack on the second and third floors while Captain 79 had the L79 driver place the main to the third-floor windows so an attempt could be made to enter to search. However, entry was not possible due to the heavy fire conditions, so the aerial was then placed to the roof where the crew cut two ventilation holes. Members went on to assist with overhauling operations.

Both units remained on location until released by Command whereupon they returned to their respective quarters. Station 85 was staffed with additional personnel during the incident.

 
Units: TSFR Engine 85 WFD Ladder 79