New Bedford Guide Your Guide to New Bedford and South Coast, MA
“On Saturday, November 19, at 11:19 a.m. the Wareham Fire Department received multiple reports of a structure fire at 426 Main Street. Captain Mickey Bird, who was in charge of Engine 1, immediately ordered a 2nd alarm on arrival, due to heavy fire conditions in the large multi-family residence.
Arriving almost simultaneously, Chief John Kelley assumed command, and assisted the crew of Engine 1 begin their fire attack. Conditions at the scene deteriorated rapidly, prompting Chief Kelley to order all firefighters out of the building. In addition, Chief Kelley struck a 3rd alarm, bringing multiple other fire departments in for assistance.
The fire was finally brought under control by 1:30 p.m., however firefighters continued to extinguish hot spots for several hours. One firefighter and one civilian were transported to Tobey Hospital for observation of non-life threatening injuries. Eight residents were displaced, and were being assisted by the Red Cross. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
A total of 37 Wareham Fire Department members responded with the following apparatus; Engine 1, Engine 3, Engine 4, Engine 5, Tower 1, Rescue 1, and Squad 2. In addition Assistant Chief Mark Rogers, and Assistant Chief Patrick Haskell also responded.
Onset Fire: Engine 1, Engine 2, Ladder 1, and Squad 2 along with Chief Jeffrey Osswald and Assistant Chief Howard Andersen.
Marion Fire: Engine 1 to Station 1 for coverage, and Ladder 1 to the scene.
Carver Fire: Engine 1 to Station 2 for coverage, Engine 3, and a Chief officer to the scene.
Two 3rd alarm Chief officers responded, one from Whitman FD and one from Plympton FD. The Providence Canteen and the State Rehab truck assisted at the scene as well. Chief Kelley said, “All WFD personnel performed seamlessly with our mutual-aid partners and we greatly appreciate their assistance.” -Wareham Fire Department.
All photos by the Wareham Fire Department:
