| Bay District Stations 3 & 9, along with surrounding mutual aid departments, responded to a reported structure fire in the 46000 block of Callas Way in Lexington Park on the afternoon of March 28, containing the blaze before it could spread into the main living areas of the home.
At approximately 4:47 p.m., emergency communications received the first 911 call reporting visible flames and smoke. A second caller quickly confirmed the situation, and the incident was dispatched as a large residential structure fire involving a townhouse. Early reports indicated the fire originated in an attached shed, with uncertainty as to whether any occupants were inside.
Upon arrival, first-due units observed active fire conditions extending from the rear of the residence. Firefighters immediately began deploying hose lines while securing a nearby hydrant to establish a reliable water supply. Command was established within minutes, and crews initiated an aggressive fire attack.
During the initial stages, reports indicated the fire may have been spreading, accompanied by a loud noise believed to be a small explosion. Concerns also arose about a neighboring exposure structure; however, firefighters quickly assessed that the adjacent residence was not occupied and had not sustained fire extension.
Occupants of the home safely evacuated prior to crews entering the structure. Firefighters conducted a primary search and confirmed that no one remained inside. At the height of the incident, approximately 33 personnel were on scene managing fire suppression, safety, and support operations.
Due to the rapid and coordinated efforts of responding crews, the fire was contained to the attached shed area with no extension into the main living space. No serious injuries were reported, though one individual was evaluated on scene by EMS personnel.
As conditions improved, command began scaling back operations, releasing additional units while crews remained to extinguish hot spots, secure utilities, and ventilate the structure. Firefighters also conducted a secondary search of the neighboring residence as a precaution.
The fire was declared under control within approximately 30 minutes of dispatch. The Office of the Fire Marshal was requested to investigate the cause of the fire, and utility personnel responded to assist. While the homeowner was initially able to make arrangements, the American Red Cross was later contacted to provide assistance for temporary displacement.
“This incident highlights the importance of rapid response and coordinated teamwork,” a department official said. “Our crews were able to stop the fire before it spread into the home, preventing what could have been a much more serious situation.”
Residents are reminded to maintain clear areas around attached structures such as sheds and decks, and to ensure smoke alarms are installed and functioning properly throughout the home.
Fire Safety Tip: Keep flammable materials away from structures and never store combustible items near heat sources or electrical equipment. |
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