One of the larger fires the occurred in the northwest Chicago suburbs this summer was in South Barrington on July 9th. I made it to the scene about 20 minutes after the initial alarm.

Larry Shapiro photo

Larry Shapiro photo

Units were called to the scene and found smoke and fire from the roof. One company initially made an interior attack but was forced to retreat due to some sort of explosion (possibly a smoke explosion) which blew out the front door as a second crew was getting ready to go inside.  The alarm was upgraded to a box alarm and the attack went defensive. The house is located on a dead end street with no hydrants.

Larry Shapiro photo

Larry Shapiro photo

Larry Shapiro photo

Larry Shapiro photo

Barrington Engine 2, the first engine on  the scene, went into the driveway. Palatine Rural Tanker 36 arrived soon after and backed into the driveway to nurse Engine 2 until the tanker shuttle could be setup. One portable tank was dropped in front of Tanker 36 and two were dropped near Barrington Engine 1 just past the house.

Larry Shapiro photo

Larry Shapiro photo

The alarm was upgraded to a 2nd Alarm for tenders after it became apparent that more units were needed to maintain a constant water supply. Most tankers each made at least four runs  to refill and dump. Three portable tanks were dropped and tied together to provide for a quicker turnaround.

Larry Shapiro photo

Larry Shapiro photo

Larry Shapiro photo

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