June 24--When two structure fires were reported at the same time, the Reading Fire Department had to make some quick decisions.
The department's five engines and three aerial trucks were divided between the fires in the 300 block of South 11th Street and the 1000 block of Pershing Boulevard, both of which were dispatched Saturday at 8:38 p.m.
And thanks to some extra help from surrounding companies, both calls ended with no injuries.
"Fortunately, we had our neighbors and volunteer ranks from the suburbs," Chief David Hollinger said on Sunday. "They got there very quickly and it was a great effort by all."
Hollinger oversaw the fire at 1051 Pershing Blvd., home of Margarita Negron and Pedro Vega, while Deputy Chief Frank Nefos Jr. took charge at 312 S. 11th St., home of Jose Arroyo, fire officials said.
Causes and origins of the fires were still being investigated by the fire marshal's office on Sunday.
Hollinger said six homes were evacuated and 26 residents were displaced on Pershing Boulevard. On South 11th Street, three homes were evacuated and at least two people were displaced, Nefos said.
The American Red Cross Berks Chapter is assisting the families.
Both fires took crews about an hour to get under control, leaving significant smoke and water damage.
Hollinger said the 1051 Pershing Blvd. home is likely a total loss.
"It's certainly unfortunate, but a lot of things went right last night," he said. "We're just glad everybody got out safely."
Contact Stephanie Weaver: 610-371-5042 or [email protected].
Copyright 2013 - Reading Eagle, Pa.
