FROM: Ernie Misewicz, Battalion Chief DATE: March 28, 2007
For Immediate Release:
On Wednesday 3/28/07 about 9:30 PM responded to 1926 Holmes Road for a
reported structure fire. Upon arrival found a 40' x 60' split level home
with fire on the south side of the structure. Fire was also found in the
attic above the living room. Fire was knocked down and extensive over
haul began. All the personal contents of the living room were moved and
covered with salvage tarps. The ceiling in the living room was pulled
and removed. Also all the smoldering cellulose insulation was removed.
The fire which had originated in the chimney chase of the wood stove had
extended into the attic. Fire had damaged the exterior wall and portion
of the roof. Indications are the fire was the results of pyrolysis. The
owner had advised they had cleaned the chimney in the fall and had used
the wood stove all winter. The night of the fire they had a fire in the
wood stove. They heard some cracking sounds and saw some smoke. Upon
further checking the fire was found burning thru the wall of the chimney
chase. Shortly there after the smoke alarms activated. The occupants
(six...two adults and four children) left the residence and called 911.
The family stayed with friends that night.