On a hot and muggy Thursday morning July 9, TSFR and Wyo FD, along with mutual aid companies were dispatched for a report of smoke coming from the building in the 2900 block of Windmill Rd in Spring Twp. Rescue Engine 85 under Capt Conner observed a smoke column on the approach and requested a second alarm be struck. Western Berks FD Ladder 18 arrived and reported smoke showing from a long office two story commercial building.
RE85 initiated a split lay from the driveway to the complex off Iroquois Ave and stretched a 2" attack hose line to the second floor of the fire building assisted by L18 personnel. Capt 85 established command and completed his size up, confirming fire visible through a second-floor window on the C Side and smoke issuing from approximately 2/3 of the building. Accordingly, the next due engine and truck were requested to that side, with Shillington Engine 36 and Reading Ladder 1 complying. WBFD E18-1 completed the split lay for RE85, Cumru E42-1 laid a 5" supply to E36. Heavy fire conditions were found on the 2nd floor and extending into the cockloft. L79 and RFD L1 were assigned to vertical ventilation along with Adamstown TK11 and Mohnton E57.
A 3rd alarm was struck for manpower, with staging established along Shillington Road. Chief 85 (Hackman) arrived and assumed Incident Command. Arriving 2nd alarm companies were put to work assisting initial companies with roof ventilation and stretching additional attack lines. With the bulk of the fire on the second floor knocked down, efforts were directed to checking extension in the attached exposure units. All first alarm units were then removed and sent to rehab before being put back to work.
Overhaul and ventilation operations were conducted by all units for approximately the next hour, after which companies were released as conditions permitted. Blandon L12 and Reamstown TK17 were relocated to Stations 79 and 85 respectively to supplement recalled personnel. Canteen 9 and RFD Unit 200 were on scene along with Western Berks EMS for rehab on this hot and humid day. Fortunately, there were no injuries to either fire service or occupants. FM43 (Hatt) arrived on location and initiated the investigation.
