Fire Crew Returning from Hospital Gets a Big Surprise

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Engine Company 3 (Lake Jennings Station) was returning from the hospital, after transporting a critically injured victim, when they stumbled across a fully engulfed semi truck fire. On 10/11/13, at 8:25 pm, Engine 3 was eastbound on Interstate 8 east of Greenfield Drive when the crew noticed an orange glow reflecting off the hillside down the freeway. As they crested the hill they discovered a semi truck (tractor) fully involved in flames.

Fire Captain Rick Dalldorf looks over fire damage to the battery area of the truck.

After notifying the Heartland Communications Center of their sudden discovery, additional engines were sent from Lakeside Fire and Heartland Fire & Rescue. A request was also made for the water tender to respond from the River Park Fire Station.

Because the crew had no prior knowledge of the fire they had to quickly don safety gear on the edge of the freeway and pull attack lines. After a short attack on the fire the flames had been knocked down and the process of overhaul could begin.

Cause of the fire is under investigation. Lakeside Fire was assisted by Heartland Fire & Rescue and Barona Fire. The driver, and occupant, escaped without injury.

Crews securing power after the fire was controlled.

Submitted By: Fire Captain Mark Grow, Lakeside Fire District

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