On Dec. 30, at 5:42 p.m., City of Rocky Mount, NC crews responded to a working commercial structure fire in the downtown area at Bob’s Appliance Service at 122 Howard St.
They found heavy smoke billowing from the front of the store. Command personnel requested an additional alarm assignment.
This resulted in a total response of four engine companies, two ladder companies, two squads, and two command officers.
Due to the heavy fire load and hazards within the building, crews were forced to initiate a defensive attack to protect exposures and contain the fire to the building of origin.
The adjacent buildings which were connected received no damage from the fire.
The fire was brought under control within two hours.
No injuries occurred during the blaze.
The CRM Electrical and Gas Troubleshooters terminated power and gas service to the building.
The CRM Water Department was requested to boost water pressure in the area to support fire suppression operations.
The RMFD Fire Marshal’s Office and RM Police Dept. assisted with the investigation and traffic control.
Nash County EMS and the Red Cross set up a rehabilitation area for firefighters.
West Edgecombe Fire Department and Battleboro Fire Department assisted by providing additional coverage for the city during the incident.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
