A Walterboro (SC) family lost their home to an early morning fire Monday, 17-Oct. The fire was reported to 9-1-1 at 02:38 when the family went to a neighbor’s home to ask for help. Colleton County (SC) Fire-Rescue units arrived 8 minutes later to find the single-story dwelling fully involved. All occupants had safely exited the structure.

The home was located well off the roadway and Engine 19 backed down the long driveway. A supply line was stretched to the road so tenders could supply the engine. Firefighter-Paramedics deployed multiple handlines to combat the fire. A blitzfire device was set up in the back of the residence. A second alarm was issued shortly after arrival for additional tenders and personnel.

Crews had the bulk of the fire knocked down within 30 minutes, but were on the scene five hours. The rear of the building was destroyed, with much of the interior being gutted. Most personal items were lost. The home was originally a singlewide mobile home that had been doubled in size and had a roof installed over the original building. This hampered extinguishment due to the multiple walls, ceilings, and double roof. The fire appears to have started in the area of the kitchen in the original structure, which spread to the attic space and into the newer addition. Water supply was handled with a tender shuttle from a pressurized hydrant four blocks from the scene. The Red Cross is assisting the family. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Engine 1, Engine 19, Tender 1, Tender 9, Tender 19, Tender 26, Medic 1, Medic 9, Medic 19, Battalion 1, Car 12 and Car 118 responded. Battalion Chief Scott O’Quinn served as Incident Commander.

Barry W. McRoy, Fire Chief, Colleton County Fire-Rescue

Harold Buzzell photo

Harold Buzzell photo

Barry W. McRoy photo

Barry W. McRoy photo

Barry W. McRoy photo

Barry W. McRoy photo