Building Fire at
Bannister Community Center

February 8, 2007 - 1645 hours
reported by PIO/Lt. Jeff Duer

Engine Company 3 was alerted for the reported building fire in the 1000 block of Armes Drive. Engine 31 arrived confirming a working fire with fire showing to the rear C & D roof area of a one-story commercial type building. Engine 31 advanced an attack line to side A, forced entry into the building, locating the fire in the rear C, D quadrant. A knock of this room was done, however the fire had already extended to the pitched attic area. Eng. 122 arrived, completing the water supply, and placed a backup line in service. Truck Company 1 (La Plata) arrived splitting there crew into two, one for the roof sector, the other to open up the interior ceiling. Engine 73 (Potomac Heights) established the secondary water supply in preparation for possible ladder pipe operations. Truck 11's (Bryans Road) crew assisted with interior operations in opening the drop ceiling and then the secondary pitched ceiling. Several other companies arrived and were assigned various duties. The fire was under control within 15 minutes; however extensive overhaul was needed in the roof and attic area with limited access. Several "spills" were taken by firefighters due to the severe icing and none required transport for injuries. Chief Stevens had command, Chief 3A (Durrer) had operations, and Chief 12B (Stewart) had interior, Captain 12 (Jacobs) with the accountability. The Maryland State Fire Marshal's Office is investigating the cause of the fire. Damage is estimated to be in excess of $275, 000.

Thanks goes out to stations 2 and 14 for filling in and helping us put the engines back in service. Also to the Waldorf Auxiliary for the well needed hot and cold beverages.

Units on the scene: Engines from companies, 2, 5, 7, and 10, Special services, 1, 2, 10, and 11, Ems units from 3 and 12. Safety 3, Southern Maryland Electric Co-op. The Charles County Public Roads, and "The Waldorf Auxiliary".