Woonsocket, RI ~ A dwelling that was in the process of being converted into 5 efficiency apartments at 160 Blackstone Street was the scene of a quick second alarm fire on Thursday April 4, 2013. Workers who were using grinding equipment on a fire escape possibly sparked the exterior fire around 1545hrs. The building was a balloon frame dwelling with a slate tile roof.
There was heavy fire showing from the Bravo side as Engine 3 arrived on scene. A second alarm was requested bringing in Ladder 2, Squad 4, Rescue 1, and Blackstone Ladder 1 to the scene. Engine 3 went into attack mode with a 1¾” attack line to try to knock down the exterior fire. Engine 1 secured water supply into Engine 3. Ladder 2 set up on the Delta side in a lot to prepare for roof operations.
Searches proved negative as companies also checked for extension inside the dwelling. The fire was quickly darkened down, as it seemed to only be confined to the exterior sidewall where the workers were operating. Rescue 1 treated one of the construction workers for minor burns. Ladder 1 opened up the exterior using hand tools and a chainsaw.
Interior companies reported that there was only light smoke inside the structure and attic space. Several layers of siding and rock wool insulation that packed the rafter bays hampered the fire’s progress. There was substantial woodwork that made up the soffits that also blocked the fire’s progression.
Firefighters exposed the sidewall and tore into the eaves exposing the charred areas. They gave the area a final wet down to prevent any rekindling of the dry timeworn wood.
Mutual aid from Cumberland, Burrillville, and Lincoln responded to the city to cover the empty firehouses. The construction worker was transported to a local hospital for evaluation of burn injuries to his legs. The fire was ruled accidental.
There was heavy fire showing from the Bravo side as Engine 3 arrived on scene. A second alarm was requested bringing in Ladder 2, Squad 4, Rescue 1, and Blackstone Ladder 1 to the scene. Engine 3 went into attack mode with a 1¾” attack line to try to knock down the exterior fire. Engine 1 secured water supply into Engine 3. Ladder 2 set up on the Delta side in a lot to prepare for roof operations.
Searches proved negative as companies also checked for extension inside the dwelling. The fire was quickly darkened down, as it seemed to only be confined to the exterior sidewall where the workers were operating. Rescue 1 treated one of the construction workers for minor burns. Ladder 1 opened up the exterior using hand tools and a chainsaw.
Interior companies reported that there was only light smoke inside the structure and attic space. Several layers of siding and rock wool insulation that packed the rafter bays hampered the fire’s progress. There was substantial woodwork that made up the soffits that also blocked the fire’s progression.
Firefighters exposed the sidewall and tore into the eaves exposing the charred areas. They gave the area a final wet down to prevent any rekindling of the dry timeworn wood.
Mutual aid from Cumberland, Burrillville, and Lincoln responded to the city to cover the empty firehouses. The construction worker was transported to a local hospital for evaluation of burn injuries to his legs. The fire was ruled accidental.
Ken LaBelle
Capt Town of Lincoln Fire/Rescue 4
NRIFirePhotos.com
Capt Town of Lincoln Fire/Rescue 4
NRIFirePhotos.com
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