News

Lightning Causes House Fire - 38000 block of Bayberry Court, Quillen's Point

July 19, 2007

At 7:12 p.m. on Thursday, July 19, the Millville Volunteer Fire Company was dispatched along with the Bethany Beach and Roxana Volunteer Fire Companies to a house fire at Quillen’s Point in the 38000 block of Bayberry Court. Within four minutes of the dispatch emergency units were responding to the alarm. When Millville’s Chief Doug Scott arrived at the scene, there was no visible smoke coming from the dwelling. A quick investigation determined there was a small fire located at the rear of the 3-story house in the chimney chase and adjoining soffit area of the roof. The house was occupied at the time of the fire, and the occupants were safely outside.

One crew entered the front of the house proceeding on up into the attic area to attack the fire. Another crew went to the rear of the house to work the chimney chase and soffit area. Bethany Beach was assigned the task of roof ventilation with their Quint aerial apparatus. An additional crew was sent inside to conduct a salvage operation in the area below and adjacent to the fire. Furniture and personal belongings were moved and protected by salvage covers.

The Dagsboro, Frankford, Rehoboth, and Selbyville Volunteer Fire Companies provided standby assistance at empty stations for the alarm. Engines responding to the alarm provided a sufficient water supply for the firefighters. Chief Doug Scott declared the fire under control at 7:51 p.m. The Sussex County Paramedics treated one firefighter at the scene for a minor eye injury.

An investigation by the Delaware State Fire Marshal’s Office determined a lightening strike was the cause of the fire. Damage was estimated at approximately $25,000. The house was equipped with working smoke detectors. This was the fourth fire in Delaware this week sparked by lightning.

“DEDICATED VOLUNTEERS PROUDLY SERVING OUR COMMUNITY”