The Danville Fire Department responded to a structure fire at 758 Stokes Street on Monday evening (12/16/19) at 5:12 pm. The first apparatus arrived 4 minutes later to find a one-story house with heavy smoke visible. The occupant was out front and advised no one else was in the house. A quick walk-around of the house found fire in the back of the house that had extended into the attic. Engine companies attacked the fire from the front of the house. After several minutes they were advised to exit the house due to the extreme heat and a large amount of fire over their heads in the attic. Ladder 1 was set up and used to control the fire along with three hand lines on the outside of the house. After an extended period of time an engine company entered the house to wet down small fires inside. The fire was brought under control in a little over two hours. During the fire an additional engine was requested for manpower. The DFD remained on scene for nearly six hours.
The DFD response included four engines, one ladder, a safety officer, and three support vehicles. There were 20 personnel on scene. The Fire Marshal's Office investigated and found the cause to be unattended cooking. The house is a total loss. The occupant will be staying with family. Assistance was provided by the DLSC, DPD, and Danville Utilities.
Brian K. Alderson - Battalion Chief