Story/Photos by FF ROB REARDON

At 9:47 A.M. on October 28, 2002, the Duxbury Public Safety Dispatch Center received a 911 call reporting a building fire at 16 Winslow Street. Off duty Duxbury Firefighter Jack Thomas, who lives a few houses down the street from the home, was the first to arrive.

At that time, there was heavy overlapping fire coming from two first floor windows at the rear of the house. Neighbors indicated they thought the homeowner might still be in the house because his truck was in the driveway. Firefighter Thomas attempted to conduct a primary search of the house but was driven back part way into the house.

Engine One, with an Officer and two firefighters, dropped a 4" supply line on the way in and then advanced a 1 3/4" attack line in the front door. They searched while advancing to the rear bedroom where firefighters knocked the fire down. Engine Two, with two Firefighters, advanced a 1 3/4" backup line into the building. Off-duty firefighters arriving on scene conducted ventilation, threw ground ladders, and secured the utilities. An Engine Company from Kingston Fire Department acted as the Rapid Intervention Team.

It was later found out the owner of the house was not home at the time of the fire.

The fire started in a first floor rear bedroom and quickly spread to adjacent rooms. The second story rooms of the house suffered considerable heat and smoke damage. Damage of the house is estimated at $ 100,000.00. Owners of the house will be unable to live in the house until the damage is repaired.

A representative of the State Fire Marshall's Office was called to assist with the cause and origin investigation. At this time, it appears that the fire was caused by an electric blanket that was left turned on.

The Firefighter's Victims Fund provided a motel room for the family of four because they were not able to stay in their own home. This fund, started by Lieutenant John Guilderson several years ago when another family was burned out of their home, provides at least two nights in a local motel at no cost to the family. The fund is supported through donations. For more information and pictures visit us on the web at www.duxburyfire.org