Lakeside Assists Alpine on a Two Alarm Structure Fire

Alpine, CA -

On Friday, February 7, 2014, at 10:59 p.m., the Heartland Communications Center received a call from a resident stating that a fire had started in their Alpine home. A first alarm structure response was sent to the home in the 3100 block of Via Viejas, on the eastern edge of Alpine. The initial alarm sent four structural engines, a truck company, one ALS medic unit, and two chief officers.

Heavy fire conditions were encountered by arriving companies.

On the arrival of Engine 17 (Alpine Fire District) firefighters reported a home with heavy smoke and fire conditions from the roof of the structure. With the arrival of additional companies, an interior attack was initiated while crews went to the roof to open up additional ventilation holes. Firefighters operating on the roof encountered heavy fire and smoke conditions.

The crew from Lakeside Engine 3, and Viejas Medic 25, work the roof.

As the running attic fire extended, a call for a second alarm was made which brought an additional five engines, two additional chief officers, and a rescue with light and air capabilities.

Crews continued to work on both the interior and roof in an attempt to cut off the fire. Finally at 12:56 a.m., the call was made that the fire was under control. Left in its wake was an extensive job of salvage and overhaul. Most units were committed into the predawn hours.

Crews on the roof continue to work to get a knockdown on the fire.

Assisting Alpine Fire were crews from Lakeside Fire District, Viejas Fire Department, Heartland Fire & Rescue, CalFire, San Miguel Fire District, Barona Fire Department, and the Santee Fire Department.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Story and Photos By: Firefighter-Paramedic Bing Tom, Lakeside Fire District

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