Quick Attack Saves Another Structure - Bagdad Road

 
By Fire Chief Christopher Taylor
September 27, 2004
 

The Potsdam Fire Department was activated at 04:21 PM on Monday, September 27, 2004 by the St. Lawrence County 911 Center for a reported working garage/shed fire possibly threatening a large propane tank and residence at 477 Bagdad Road in the Town of Potsdam. Engine 80, chauffeured by Lt. Michael Corbett, responded at 04:22 PM and arrived on scene at 04:27 PM reporting heavy smoke showing from an 12'x20' shed behind the residence. First Assistant Chief David McGregor arrived on the scene and established command requesting Tanker 100, chauffeured by Firefighter Mark Bradish, lay a supply line to Engine 80 upon arrival. Command advised a large propane tank was next to the residence but did not pose an immediate hazard. Engine 111, operated by Past Chief Bob Robar, established a fill-site at a hydrant on Clarkson Avenue at the intersection the Bagdad Road. An 1¾" attack line was stretched by Captain Robert Farnsworth Sr. and the building was horizontally vented by Past Chief Thomas McGregor and Firefighter Jason Farnsworth. A quick attack confined the fire to the rear of the loft, unfortunately significant heat build-up had damaged a majority of the items stored in the loft. Third Assistant Chief Kevin Grant confirmed the quick stop by utilizing the Scott Eagle 160 thermal imaging camera, from Rescue 14, to scan the building. Chief Taylor investigated the fire with the assistance of Firefighters Andrus, Farnsworth, and Sharpe. The point of origin had been located, however the cause remains undetermined at this time. Firefighters returned to service at 6:00 PM.

 
Units: Engine 80 (Lt. Michael Corbett), Engine 111 (Past Chief Robar), Rescue 14 (Lt. Walt McLennan), Tanker 100 (Firefighter Mark Bradish)
 
Mutual Aid: None