Structure Fire with Entrapment

At approximately 0440 on Wednesday 01/25/2023, Station 12 along mutual aid agencies were dispatched to the 100 block of Magnolia Ln in Alsace Twp for a Structure Fire with reported Entrapment. Ladder and Engine 12 responded and arrived on scene to find heavy fire in the basement of the residence along with advanced fire conditions on the first floor. Ladder 12’s crew immediately initiated search and rescue operations without protection of a hoseline above a well involved basement fire. Members searched for the trapped occupant even as fire was below them and overtop of them. Two hose lines were stretched and placed into operation but after several minutes, the fire began quickly advancing around search crews. With the fire conditions worsening, and a compromised floor due to fire conditions below, the mission became critically compromised. Command ordered an emergency evacuation from the building. Several firefighters suffered injuries including burns during the rescue attempt. After the fire was brought under control, tragically one occupant was found deceased. Another occupant and a canine were able to escape the fire prior to our arrival. The surviving occupant was transported to an area hospital by EMS and was treated for smoke inhalation. The Pennsylvania State Police Fire Marshal is investigating the cause of the fire. Please keep the family, friends, and responders in your thoughts during this difficult time. #blandonfire

Photo – Paramedic Geisinger (Oley EMS)