News

Working House Fire - 37 Neptune Drive, Ocean Farm

June 04, 2007

WORKING HOUSE FIRE ON JUNE 4, 2007

At 5:18 a.m. on Monday, June 4, the Millville Volunteer Fire Company was dispatched along with the Bethany Beach and Roxana Volunteer Fire Companies to a house fire at 37 Neptune Drive in Ocean Farm, Ocean View. Within five minutes of the dispatch of the early morning alarm, Millville and Bethany Beach were responding with five pieces of equipment. When Millville’s Rescue Lieutenant Richie Walls arrived at the scene, heavy smoke was coming from the dwelling, and there was fire showing at the front of the home. Truck Captain Eric Huovinen, Sr. led the first crew from Engine 6 in the attack on the fire at the front of the house and then into the front door using an inch and three-quarter line to extinguish the fire, and conduct a primary search of the dwelling. Initial reports indicated the occupants were not at home. Rescue Captain Guy Rickards initiated the ventilation of the roof area.

Chief Doug Scott was assigned to be in charge of operations on the scene. As additional units and manpower from Millville, Bethany Beach, and Roxana Volunteer Fire Companies arrived on the scene, three additional lines were placed into service to aid in fire suppression and crew protection. After conducting a secondary search, it was determined no occupants were home. A fire hydrant located at the corner of the property provided an immediate water supply for the fire companies. Roxana’s units were assigned as the RIT (Rapid Intervention Team) team. Rescue Lieutenant Richie Walls declared the fire under control at

5:57 a.m. Dagsboro, Frankford, Selbyville, and Rehoboth Volunteer Fire Companies provided standby assistance during the alarm.

The cause of the fire is undetermined at this time and is still under investigation by the Delaware State Fire Marshal’s Office. Damage was estimated at approximately $150,000.

“DEDICATED VOLUNTEERS PROUDLY SERVING OUR COMMUNITY”