On March 15, 2005 at 5:19 pm, Roanoke Fire-EMS received a cell phone call for smoke coming from the roof of a condominium complex located at 23rd and Jefferson Street SW. First alarm assignment of 2 engines, 1 ladder, 1 medic unit, a Battalion chief, and EMS operations Captain were dispatched.
At 5:21pm, engine 8 arrived to find a three story condominium complex with heavy smoke from side A roof area.
Engine 8 called for a second alarm, stretched an attack line and began evacuation of the complex. All residents were evacuated safely including several handicapped residents.
Once additional companies arrived, an aggressive interior attack was initiated. The fire began to spread rapidly throughout the attic area, which was used as storage units for the condos.
Companies were assigned to cut a ventilation hole in the roof and shortly there after the fire self ventilated side A.
Once the fire ventilated, interior crews attempted to gain access to the attic but were hampered by heavy smoke and heat conditions. Ladder 1 was set and began aerial operations to cool the roof and attic area allowing interior crews to then access the attic.
The fire damage was contained to the attic and roof area only with heavy water damage to 3 of the 6 condos. A total of 5 engines, 2 ladders, 2 medic units and 2 battalions were required to bring the fire under control at 6:02 pm.
Roanoke Fire-EMS is a Nationally Accredited Fire-EMS organization.
