| On Friday, June 18, 2010 at 1:35 AM, the Purchase Fire Department was dispatched to a residential alarm at 7 Woods End. A minute later, as the crew of Engine 240 was boarding the rig, 60 Control made an additional dispatch reporting a possible structure fire. As Engine 240 and Tower Ladder 53 were responding, the alarm assignment was upgraded to a working fire after 60 Control stated that they received several calls reporting a fire in the basement.
Upon arrival, Engine 240 quickly determined that the home fire sprinkler system had activated within the smoke-charged basement, containing and apparently extinguishing the blaze. Members used thermal imaging cameras to confirm that the fire had been extinguished before extending beyond its point of origin. The sprinkler valve was then shut to prevent excess water damage. Crews also set up high-powered fans to ventilate the structure, which was filled with several harmful gases such as carbon monoxide.
The fire was caused by a faulty dehumidifier that had been recalled in December 2009 because it contains an internal component that can fail and make the unit overheat. All consumers should discontinue use of the Hampton Bay, Model HB-50, Dehumidifier sold at the Home Depot from November 2000 through May 2007.
Although fire always brings misfortune upon those directly impacted, this incident serves as a prime example of the importance of detection and suppression systems. During the overnight hours, the occupants of the home were alerted by activated smoke detectors, allowing adequate time for safe egress. Additionally, a single sprinkler head can be credited with extinguishing the fire and limiting further damage to the home.
All units returned in service at 3:18 AM. The Purchase Fire Department thanks our neighbors, the Port Chester Fire Department, for standing by in our quarters throughout the incident.
Sources:
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission:
http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml10/10082.html
Home Fire Sprinkler Coalition:
http://www.homefiresprinkler.org |
