Calif. Firefighter Hurt When Roof Collapses During Fire
Source Contra Costa Times, Walnut Creek, Calif.
Jan. 09--HERCULES -- A firefighter injured his shoulder when a roof collapsed during an overnight chimney fire, the Rodeo-Hercules Fire District said.
The fire district was called about 3:35 a.m. Monday to a two-story home on Lilac Circle and firefighters arrived to see flames engulfing the chimney, attic and roof, said Battalion Chief Brian Lowry.
A single male resident escaped safely after being awakened by a smoke alarm, Lowry said.
Firefighters brought the fire under control at 4:10 a.m., but not before a firefighter was injured in a partial roof collapse. Lowry said the injured man was taken to the hospital but that his injuries do not appear to be serious.
Fire officials believe the blaze, which caused an estimated $200,000 in damage, started in the home's fireplace. Lowry said the homeowner was diligent about cleaning the chimney and that a fire had long been out when the early-morning fire started. For a reason still under investigation, remnants reignited and a fire made its way into the flue's exterior construction and into the attic.
Lowry said Monday morning's fire should serve as a reminder for residents to have their chimneys inspected at least once a year and to ensure their homes have working smoke alarms.
Copyright 2012 - Contra Costa Times, Walnut Creek, Calif.
