At 4:23 p.m. on February 12, emergency dispatchers received multiple 911 calls reporting a house fire in the 21500 block of Constellation Street. Callers advised that flames were visible from the chimney of a two-story, multi-family residence, with fire appearing to extend into the second floor attic area.

Engine 31 arrived within minutes and reported fire showing from the attic on the Alpha side of the structure. Command was initially established by Captain 3 (Wentworth) and later assumed by Chief 3B (Vanness), with a command post located in the cul-de-sac to coordinate operations.

Firefighters quickly advanced hose lines to the second floor and attic, where Division 2 crews reported water on the fire within minutes of arrival. Tower 9 was assigned to the roof division to assist with ventilation, while additional crews opened up interior walls and ceiling spaces to check for fire extension.

Primary and secondary searches of the second floor were completed with negative results, confirming that no occupants were trapped inside. All residents had safely evacuated prior to fire department arrival. Two adults and four dogs were displaced as a result of the incident.

At 4:40 p.m., command reported the fire under control. Crews continued to check for extension and conduct overhaul operations to ensure all hidden hot spots were extinguished. Power to the home was secured, and a water supply was established to support suppression efforts.

The fire was fully extinguished, and no extension was found on the first floor.

A total of 27 personnel initially operated on scene, with additional units responding to support the working fire assignment. Firefighters were split into interior and exterior teams to safely and efficiently manage suppression and overhaul efforts. A personnel accountability report confirmed all members were accounted for throughout the incident.

The American Red Cross was requested to assist the displaced residents.

“This incident highlights the importance of rapid evacuation and early notification,” a department official said. “Because the occupants called 911 quickly and exited the home, crews were able to focus entirely on extinguishing the fire and preventing further damage.”

No civilian or firefighter injuries were reported.

Fire Safety Reminder

Fireplaces and chimney systems should be inspected and cleaned annually to prevent the buildup of creosote and debris, which can ignite and lead to attic fires. Residents are reminded to ensure proper maintenance of heating appliances and to install working smoke alarms on every level of the home.

Test your smoke alarms monthly and replace batteries at least once a year. Early detection and quick action can make all the difference in a fire emergency.

*** Some photos courtesy of www.smnewsnet.com ***