Deployment Stories
Ara Safety’s Fire Interruption Technology Makes Interior Attack Possible in PA Basement Fire
New Castle, PA
March 2010
On March 17, the Neshannock Volunteer Fire Department used a Fire Interruption Technology device to knock down a basement fire, gain entry, and save a Pennsylvania home from total loss.
When Fire Chief John DiCola and a Neshannock firefighter arrived on scene, they could see heavy smoke coming out of the eaves, chimney, and attic vents of the vacant single-family dwelling. The fire originated in the basement, consuming the staircase. With only one firefighter on the line and no other available point of entry, Chief DiCola deployed Ara’s device.
“Within 10 seconds the fire had darkened down and conditions began to improve”, said Chief DiCola. Shortly after, back up personnel arrived with the truck company. The department estimates that Ara’s device held the fire down for the 3-5 minutes it took the fire crews to set up for entry and attack.
The department used only 50 gallons of water to extinguish the remaining embers. More than 1000 gallons that would have been consumed had Ara’s device not been available.
“Fire Interruption Technology gave my personnel the extra cushion of time needed to perform a proper and safe attack and minimized their exposure to deteriorating conditions”, said Chief DiCola. “It was evident that the quick knock down of fire by Ara’s device prevented extension of fire and reduced water and smoke damage.”
This was the department’s third Fire Interruption Technology deployment. Two previous deployments resulted in quick knockdown of flames and prevented fire extension. “In this case, the stairwell to the basement had been burnt away and access was not immediately possible”, said Chief DiCola. “Deployment of Ara’s device allowed some time to secure additional personnel and equipment to make entry into the basement.”
The Neshannock Fire Department has already placed an order for 3 additional units through Ara Safety’s local dealer, Kair Inc.
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