Units of the San Jose Fire Department responded to multiple calls of fire from a single-story, single family dwelling at 244 Edwards Ave. south of downtown San Jose just after 1:00 a.m., December 3, 2006.
First due Engine and Truck 3 arrived on scene as part of a full-first alarm and confirmed a working structure fire with exposure problems. A second-alarm was struck immediately to protect adjacent structures. Approximately one hour into the incident, while inspecting the interior of the home for hotspots, a major natural gas explosion occurred lifting the structure from its foundation and injuring five firefighters.
Immediately after the explosion a RIC team deployed to assist in the extrication of all five firefighters and a third-alarm was struck. Four of the injured firefighters were transported to area hospitals for treatment and released. One firefighter was hospitalized for back pain, but was reported to be in good condition.
Fourth and fifth alarms were subsequently struck triggering a mutual aid response from nearby agencies including the Mountain View, Santa Clara, Milpitas, Santa Clara County fire departments, and the Sunnyvale Department of Public Safety.
After the explosion firefighters deployed the deck gun from San Jose Engine 3 and elevated master streams off of Truck 4 and Truck 1 while crews were ordered to remain shielded behind apparatus if within 150 feet of the structure. Pacific Gas & Electric responded to the scene to isolate the area and shut off the flow of gas.
