LYONS IL, February 20, 2005 -- Lyons firefighters and over 20 suburban fire departments battled a quick moving but stubborn blaze in an occupied, two-story, brick apartment building.
The fire was first reported at about 12:40 PM, and within minutes of the first arriving companies, MABAS Fire Box #13-1 was requested. Shortly after, EMS Box #13-2 was requested for precautionary measures. At approximately 1:10 PM, the second alarm MABAS box was pulled. MABAS resources from Division's 10, 11, and 21 were used to bring this fire under control.
Companies arrived to find heavy smoke throughout the first and second floors with fire already traveling the cockloft. After a very aggressive primary search to evacuate the remaining residents and interior attack to hold the flames, an evacuation order was given.
A defensive attack ensued, using two tower ladder's, one aerial pipe, a deck gun and two 2-1/2" lines. In addition, a third tower and second aerial pipe were setup as a precaution.
Shortly after 3:15 PM, the fire was placed under control. The master streams were shut down enabling the crews to get back to an interior attack for the final mop-up.
The American Red Cross along with Village of Lyons authorities are assisting in relocating the displaced residents.
