Story/Photos by DENNIS WETHERHOLD, JR

A fire started by a ceramic heater in an Allentown, PA apartment house sent residents running for safety on Monday November 4th.

At 06:05 hours the Allentown 9-1-1 Communications Center dispatched out a full box assignment consisting of 3 Engine Companies, 1 Truck Company and the Shift Deputy Chief.

Engine 6, the first due engine on the scene reported heavy flames showing from the rear of a three story apartment house.

Reports of a resident trapped on the 3rd floor sent firefighters to work.

An interior attack crew was sent up a rear fire escape with a 1 ¾” line to attack the fire and, a rescue crew was sent to the 3rd floor to rescue the trapped tenant.

Acting Deputy Chief Michael Ruff called for a 2nd alarm which brought to the scene an additional 3 Engine Companies and 1 Truck Company.

Firefighter Bryce Thompson found the 3rd floor tenant, Patricia Reinhart quickly and started to escort her down.

When arriving on the second floor firefighter Thompson found deteriorating fire conditions with smoke banking down to the floor level.

Firefighter Thompson removed his SCBA mask and gave it to the victim to use while they quickly moved back to the third floor and on to a roof.

Firefighters accessed the roof area and the victim was removed.

Firefighters also rescued a cat from the fire. Patricia Reinhart and Firefighter Bryce Thompson were both taken to local hospitals for smoke inhalation and released.

The fire was placed under control with in 15 minutes however fire crews remained on scene for several hours doing overhaul and investigation.