At about 0545 hours, a citizen heading to work called the station stating he smelled what seem to be mulch burning in the area of Tanglewood Drive and Riverdale Road.  He added that he did not see any smoke or fire in the area. The station notified Public Safety Communications (PSC) and responded to the location with E807 staffed with 8 volunteers.  After arriving in the area and finding nothing the crew returned to the station.

Photos Early In Operations

As they were heading back to bed, PSC alerted the station for atreported house on fire at Kenilworth Avenue and Riverdale Road at 0621 hours.  E807 went on scene at 5413 Riverdale Road with fire and heavy smoke coming from the 3 strory vaccant structure. Crews split up into two groups, each advancing a 1 3/4" attack line.  One crew reported to the front and one to the rear.  Crews from Riverdale (Company 807) and Bladensburg (Company 809) made quick work to try and put a good knock on the fire.  Unfortunately, due to recent issues with the structure and the condition of the building, crews had to pull out due to the first floor burning away and deteriorating stability of the house.  Crews regrouped and performed exterior operations.  In total, 8 handlines and 4 master streams were placed in service.  Crews operated on scene for just over 6 hours.  Company 807 operated with 8 personnel from the Engine and 3 additional personnel that reported to the scene in the utility truck. 

More Pictures From The Fire

Crews remained on the scene perfroming exterior operations for quite a long time.  E807 was finally able to clear the scene aat 1204 hours. 

A good job was performed by all on the scene and all companies responding are to be commended.