Community Risk

Pa. Firefighters Pull Up at Wrong House During Call

March 8, 2013

Reading firefighters, responding to a reported house fire pulled up to the wrong house after an apparent language barrier caused miscommunications. Officials say the delay did not hinder operations.

Source Reading Eagle, Pa.

March 08--Some city crews responded to the wrong house Thursday during a fire call, but the chief said the problem didn't hinder firefighting.

Firefighters initially responded to a house on Marion Street shortly after the fire was called in at 12:38 p.m., but then learned the fire was at 1146 N. Sixth St., according to Chief David Hollinger.

"I think there was a language barrier," he said. "But we had no real delay because we had multiple companies responding and the correction was made while firefighters were en route."

Hollinger said that the department is investigating the miscommunication.

Engines arrived on Sixth Street about 12:44 p.m. The fire was contained to one room, and no residents or firefighters were injured, officials said.

The cause is under investigation. No damage estimate was available.

The American Red Cross, Berks County Chapter, is assisting two families with food and clothing, and another couple with shelter.