Shortly before 8 p.m. on February 25, 2003 Deptford fire fighters were dispatched to the Deptford Mall for a reported gas leak at one of the restaurants with numerous people possibly injured.
While the companies were operating at the Deptford Mall a reported dwelling fire was received for 1561 Hurffville Road (Rt. 41) in the Blackwood Terrace section of the Township. Engine 912 would be first due. County Fire Radio informed them that they were receiving numerous calls for a working dwelling fire. It just so happened that Engine 912 was on driver training that evening and was just a short distance away from the fire location.
As they were arriving they found a one story, wood frame, single family dwelling heavily involved with fire.
All occupants had exited the dwelling and were safely outside.
Captain James Stewart requested a 2nd alarm and said, that his crew was leading off with a 2 1/2 Blitz line for a quick attack. Engine 943 was arriving and were laying in an 5 inch supply line to back up Engine 912.
Battalion Chief Stephen Hubbs ( 902 ) was now arriving along with Battalion Chief Chris Pfeiffer.
Ladder 936 was now going into service with his main ladder and ladder pipe. Firefighters were having a difficult time due to the heavy ice and snow conditions from the left over 2 foot snow storm that we had earlier in the week.
Firefighters made a quick knock down on the main part of the fire. Firefighters were now on the roof ventilating as other members were stretching 1 3/4 inch lines through the front door and working their way into the dwelling.
At the height of the fire, the main electrical service line was now burning on the corner peak of the roof causing a large electrical ark to light up the night sky.
It took firefighters nearly one hour before Chief Hubbs put this fire Under Control.
The fire is under investigation by the Deptford Township Fire Marshal's Office who determined that the blaze may have been caused by a malfunctioning oil burner.
Assisting at the fire scene were Battalions 9-1, 9-2, 9-3, 9-4, Deptford Police Emergency Service Unit ( EMS ), the Runnemede Fire Department, Chews Landing Ladder Company 824 and Blenheim Fire Co. Engine 931 and Camden County Fire Police Units, also Camden County Canteen 1. Department Fire Department had high praise for everyone involved on this cold freezing night battling the elements and this fast moving fire. We were happy that no one was injured.
