Just prior to midnight, Jarrettsville, Norrisville, Whiteford, Fawn Grove, Fallston, and Bel Air Fire Companies were alerted for a reported house fire on Rush Road in Jarrettsville.

Chief 7-1 responded to the scene and was met at the end of a long driveway by the occupant. Once at the house, an individual was observed trying to extinguish a fire in the walls and soffit of the house. Unfortunately, the fire had already progressed into the roof.

Engine 714 arrived and advanced a 1-3/4" handline into the dwelling. The crew was met with high heat and smoke conditions with the fire breaking out through the roof necessitating their evacuation. Exterior operations commenced until the fire was knocked down and crews could re-enter. The fire was hidden in the trusses between the roof and interior tongue-and-groove wood ceiling. Gaining access was not an easy task with some areas only accessible from the roof with a 12/12 pitch.

A second alarm was requested bringing volunteers from Stewartstown, Long Green, Hereford, Delta, Darlington, and Level. The Susquehanna Hose Co. (Havre de Grace) transferred to Jarrettsville to stand by.

Once the fire was out, over a thousand feet of supply line had to be disconnected, drained, rolled, and repacked. This was done by crews who had already given their all.

A working smoke alarm was credited for alerting the occupants to the fire. The cause was determined to be improperly discarded smoking materials.

Thanks again to everyone - the Maryland State Fire Marshal, BGE, Red Cross, and the Jarrettsville Auxiliary for your help.