An early morning working fire summoned Hopewell firefighters. The nearest hydrant was 3,000 feet away .
The call came in at 0426 hours by a passerby from I-295 on Saturday, December 30, 2006.
Firefighters arriving on scene discovered a vacant house at the end of Cameron Drive, which was a long narrow dirt drive. The structure displayed heavy fire through the roof and throughout the interior.
The house was a two-and-a-half story cinderblock dwelling.
Responding were Stations 1 and 2 and the on-duty Battalion Chief. Apparatus initially included four engines and one truck.
Challenges mandated a mutual aid call to Prince George County, who dispatched a tanker and additional manpower.
The fire attack was aggressive and defensive mode with an exposure. Attack lines stretched were 1 3/4" for fire control.
The nearest hydrant was located 3,000 feet away. Water was shuttled from this location to waiting apparatus.
Also responding as mutual aid was Enon Volunteer Fire Department's (Chesterfield) Engine # 6 which reported to Hopewell Station #1 for fill in. Engine #6 was then later dispatched for relief at the fire scene.
Exposures included a vacant garage. Fire crews prevented any damage to this structure.
Extensive overhaul was performed due to amount of damage.
Officials said the house circa 1946, was a total loss.
Hopewell Fire Marshal and Hopewell Police are investigating.
No injuries were reported and the last unit cleared the scene at 1336 hours.
