Lightning Strikes

In the middle of a severe thunderstorm Station 15-1 was dispatched to 413 Crestwood Avenue for a dwelling fire. As units signed on, Camden County Communications advised 15101 (Chief John Medes) that they were receiving numerous calls of a house struck by lightning.

First arriving units reported smoke from the upper floor of a single family dwelling. Squirt 15-1 was first due, and laid in from a hydrant. Crews led off with 1-3/4" hand lines. At the 10 minute mark interior reported a heavy smoke condition on the upper floor and they were searching for the fire. Ladder 15-1 arrived, laddered the dwelling and vented the roof and attic vents. The fire was placed under control in under 30 minutes.

There were no reported injuries, and the fire remains under investigation by the Camden County Fire Marshals Office.

*All photos are courtesy of Bob Chester.