Just after midnight, Box 5-5 (Taneytown) sounded. Engine 81 and Command Support 8 were dispatched to assist on a building fire in the 100 block of Fairground Ave at the Dunkin' Donuts store. Emergency Communications Center (ECC) received multiple calls for smoke coming from the building.
Police Officers used fire extinguishers to slow the progression of fire before units arrived. Paramedic 59 arrived first with smoke showing. As Ladder 5 approached, Lt. Krebs requested the Rapid Intervention Dispatch and a 2nd Alarm. Ladder 5's crew began an immediate fire attack and knocked the fire quickly. Engine 81 arrived 3rd engine and layed supply line from a second hydrant to the "Charlie/Delta" corner of the structure, while CS8 (Capt. Keeney) positioned on the "Delta" side with the Command Post. Engine 81's crew was assigned to gain access to the 2nd floor/attic area to search for extension. No fire was located but heavy smoke had filled the area. The crew opened windows to ventilate and began removing insulation, plywood flooring and storage in the area above where the fire was located. A thermal imager was used to scan for fire or hot areas, but none were found.
Rescue Squad 8 responded on the R.I.D. and on arrival, took position on side "Alpha". Engine/Tanker 82 was dispatched on the 2nd Alarm. With the fire quickly knocked, Command reduced the assignment and Engine/Tanker 82 transferred to Station 5 (Taneytown).
The incident is under investigation by the Maryland State Fire Marshal's Office. All Union Bridge units returned to the station by 0300 hrs.
Units:
E-81, CS8, RS-8, E/T-82
Mutual Aid:
Taneytown, Harney, Littlestown, Pleasant Valley, Westminster(TW3), Emmittsburg(TW6), Thurmont(Air Cascade)
A/D corner. Photo: Westminster VFD
The fire was quickly contained. Photo: Westminster VFD
