At 7:16 a.m. on Sept. 1, Sussex EOC alerted Station 85 (Milton), Station 75 (Ellendale), Station 89(Memorial), and Medic 101 for a structure fire on Reynolds Pond Road and Cedar Creek Road.
Fire Chief Lynn Rogers arrived on scene to find a two-story private dwelling (under construction) fully involved. The structure had collapsed upon his arrival. First arriving Engine 85-4's crew stretched two 1 3/4 hand lines to the exterior of the structure. The dumpster located next to the residence was engulfed and the woods started catching fire. The exposures were handled by personnel using Engine 4 hose lines. Ladder 85's crew set up the master stream at the tip of the ladder. Command requested two additional tankers and were summoned from Station 42 (Milford) and Station 77 (Georgetown). All companies were on scene for approximately two hours.
The house under construction was intentionally started. Damages have been estimated at approximately $200,000.
