08-07-14 Fire Displaces Family of Five

Captain Michael Schroyer with Engine 9 said heavy smoke and fire was visible when his fire company arrived on the scene. As additional fire companies responded to the scene, firefighters with Engine 9 grabbed a hoseline and made an interior attack.

Captain Schroyer said there was a lot of smoke and fire inside the structure, adding that their fire suppression efforts were hampered by how the house was constructed. It had void spaces and several roof additions, making it difficult to get to the fire. Captain Schroyer said it was also difficult because the area on fire was cluttered with stored items and debris.

Despite the obstacles, the firefighters got the fire under control in roughly 30 minutes. No one was injured. Captain Andre Dean, the incident commander, said most of the fire damage was contained to the garage and kitchen area. The dollar loss was estimated at $25,000. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Captain Dean said the fire displaced five people, including three adults and two children. Volunteers with the American Red Cross of Southeast Tennessee were called in to provide assistance to the family. Chattanooga police and Hamilton County EMS also provided assistance on the scene.