Thanks to Eric Haak for another submission, this time from a fire in Chicago

Here is another great example of a fire originating in back porches and going on to nearly consume an entire structure.

This occurred back in September, 2009 near the corner of 56th and Justine in the Back of the Yards neighborhood on Chicago’s south side.  Engine 116 called for a Still & Box as they pulled up to this 2.5 story, 25 x 50 frame as it was communicating to the occupied 2.5 story, 25 x 100 frame to the south.  The “rear porches” were fully involved and fire was already extending into the attic.

Eric Haak photo

Eric Haak photo

As companies made entry, fire could be seen venting from the windows and ceiling just above them.  The attic and second floor eventually became fully involved and there was an emergency evacuation ordered as the roof collapsed while companies worked inside.

Eric Haak photo

Tower Ladder 39 was set up to snuff out the remaining fire in the attic which was eventually completely consumed.  While fire did get into the southern exposure, companies did a great job of getting to that quickly and the damage to this building was held to a minimum.

Eric Haak photo

Eric Haak photo

The kids from the neighborhood had a lot of questions about what it is like to be inside of the burning building and this member entertained them with his great answers.

Eric Haak photo