Lincolnshire-Riverwoods (IL) firefighters were called to the scene of a house fire last night at 20538 N. Clarice Avenue in unincorporated Lake County. While responding, the alarm was upgraded to a Code 4 for the working fire. The temperature was at 12 degrees and a steady, wind driven snow was falling as the first units arrived to find fire throughout the two-story house with two residents waiting outside.

The husband was transported to an area hospital by Lincolnshire personnel, reportedly with smoke inhalation and burns. The closest hydrant was frozen, and the alarm was upgraded to a Box Alarm as companies laid lines to another hydrant and setup Lincolnshire Truck 53 for master stream operations.

Both Lincolnshire engines were pumping as well as Truck 53.  Mutual and auto-aid companies at the scene included Long Grove, Countryside, Buffalo Grove, Northbrook, Palatine, Northfield, and Grayslake.

Images here are from Sally Miller, a neighbor, and Larry Shapiro who arrived after the roof collapsed. There is a short video at the bottom of this post.

Sally Miller photo

Sally Miller photo

Sally Miller photo

Sally Miller photo

Sally Miller photo

Sally Miller photo

Sally Miller photo

A gas line burns freely on the side of the house. Larry Shapiro photo

The rehab unit. Larry Shapiro photo

Firemen stand watch over the gas fire. Larry Shapiro photo

A Lincolnshire lieutenant covered with ice. Larry Shapiro photo

Lincolnshire fire chief in front of the building. Larry Shapiro photo

Another firefighter that is iced over. Larry Shapiro photo

Several lines were off the primary engine. Larry Shapiro photo

The master stream is directed into the house. Larry Shapiro photo

The engineer manages the attack lines. Larry Shapiro photo

Smoke obscures the front of the house. Larry Shapiro photo