On May 5 at 7:32am E1 was dispatched to 900 block of East Laurel St. in the City of Reading along with an engine from Exeter Twp (Co 25) to assist on a 2nd alarm structure fire. At 7:55am command struck at 3rd alarm which brought reserve apparatus from the city along with L1 to the scene. Spring Twp (Co 85) was special called to provide a Rapid Intervention Team (RIT). Fire had extended from the original fire building to numerous houses on either side, all with heavy fire and smoke. Live electrical lines were also downed which made access to some areas difficult until Met-Ed was able to secure the power. Crews assisted with extinguishment and extensive overhaul in the involved structures, some of which were damaged so badly that the city will have to demolish them. Command released the county units at approximately 10:30am. The Red Cross is providing assistance to numerous displaced residents and the cause is still under investigation by the City Fire Marshal’s office.
Photo courtesy of Reading Eagle/Tim Leedy
Photo courtesy of Reading Eagle/Tim Leedy
Photo courtesy of Reading Eagle/Tim Leedy
