Fire Destroys Vacant House

The single story house was engulfed in flames, with neighboring houses located close by other either side. Residents in those homes were observed outside, spraying the exterior with garden hoses in an effort to protect their homes.

Seeing the potential for the fire to spread to those homes, Captain Suttles called for two additional fire companies. Meanwhile, with flames breaking through the roof, the decision was made to fight the fire defensively. The firefighters raised an aerial to spray water on the house from above, while other firefighters used hand-held hoselines to attack the fire from all sides, and to protect the neighboring homes. Those homes showed some signs of heat damage to the siding, but that appeared to be the extent of the damage. No injuries were reported.

Captain Suttles said the house has been vacant for months, and there was no electrical service to the home. The house will be considered a total loss. The cause of the fire is under investigation. Chattanooga police and Hamilton County EMS also provided assistance on the scene.

Note: You are welcome to use any photos or video clips that might be attached to this news release. If you choose to use them, please provide proper attribution. Unless noted otherwise, the photos and videos are from me.

Thanks,

Bruce Garner
Public Information Director

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