Early Friday morning September 4, TSFRS was alerted for a structure fire, reported as smoke in the apartment in the Berkshire Hills development in Spring Township. As such, TSFRS Engine 85, Shillington Engine 36, Western Berks Ladder 18 and Engine 18-1, Cumru Engine 42, Wyomissing Ladder 79, Mount Penn Company 1 (RIT) and Western Berks EMS Medic 6511 were dispatched. While units were responding, County Communications advised that the police were on location and reporting a heavy smoke condition in one apartment and light conditions in an adjoining unit, with no fire visible. E85 arrived and reported nothing showing from a mid-row townhouse. All occupants were reported to be evacuated.
While Captain 85 checked the rear and noted no smoke of flames, interior personnel reported a smoke condition, possibly coming from an air conditioning unit in a bedroom. Accordingly, an engine was requested to stand by the hydrant on Wyoming Dr. and the balance of the assignment was held to units already on location.
The air conditioning unit was checked and internal wiring was found to be burned and melted. L79 used fans to ventilate the two units. Once the smoke was cleared, E85's crew used meters to check both units for CO and all readings were negative. Command obtained information and advised the occupants on further action required.
When all equipment was secured, the assignment returned with no further service required.
