Lebanon Fire District crews were dispatched to a structure fire on E Pine Street in Lebanon at approximately 2:12 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 18, after neighbor reported seeing light smoke coming from the roof of a single-family residence.
Firefighters arrived at 2:16 p.m. and immediately deployed hose lines to the front door. Approximately 400 feet of supply hose was laid from the nearest hydrant to the residence to establish a water supply for the firefighting operation. Initial reports indicated that possibly two people were inside the home. Crews forced entry and began searching the residence for the fire and any potential occupants. A resident arrived shortly after and confirmed that everyone was safely out of the building.
In a statement, LFD reported conditions inside the home were “challenging,” with dense smoke down to the floor and a high fire load throughout the structure. These conditions required firefighters to exit the front and re-enter from the back of the residence as they worked to locate the fire.
An engine company placed ladders on the building and opened the roof to ventilate the structure. This allowed heat and smoke to escape, and significantly improved conditions for firefighters operating inside.
The fire was located in the kitchen area and was knocked down approximately 25 minutes after the initial call.
Although the fire was quickly brought under control, incidents like this require significant manpower and time to overhaul the structure and ensure the fire is completely extinguished, LFD stated.
Approximately two hours after arriving, firefighters turned the scene over to the LFD fire investigation team, who remained on scene for approximately four hours conducting their investigation.
The cause and origin of the fire have not been released and are not available at the time of this report.
Albany Fire Department assisted with fire suppression operations and provided coverage to the Lebanon Fire District while their crews and resources were committed to the incident. Lebanon Police Department assisted with traffic control.