Children playing with fire cause half acre brush fire
May 5, 2007
Children playing with fire caused a 1/2 acre brush fire in the woods between Blackthorn Drive and Jacobs Lane on Saturday, May 5, 2007. The fire, which was initially observed by the Mendon Fire Lookout Tower, was called into the 9-1-1 line by a resident at 4:06 PM.
Firefighters were hampered in the initial response as 1/2 of the on-duty compliment (2) were on a medical emergency call. The remaining two on-duty firefighters responded (one each) in Engine 22 and Brush 24. They were immediately assisted at the scene by Chief John Mauro, who was called in for another call.
Due to the limited manpower, and the moderate wind, off-duty and on-call members were recalled when Box 16 was struck.
Three engines, one brush truck and the pick-up truck responded. Westborough Fire Department provided coverage with an engine while Southborough apparatus were tied up.
The fire was contained by 4:37 PM, and completely extinguished by 5:28 PM.
Members of the joint Fire/Police Fire Investigation Unit investigated and determined the fire to be incendiary. Further investigation revealed that two children playing with fire were the cause.
No injuries were reported and no homes were in immediate danger.
The following photos are courtesy of Linda Hubley ©2007
Firefighter Matt Hubley, Lt. Jim Peltier and FF/EMT-P Chris Shanahan overhaul the fire.
More overhaul.
FF Tony Alessi wets down some hot spots.
Car 20, Engine 22, Engine 21 and Brush 24 in a driveway of Jacobs Lane. Several thousand gallons of water were used to extinguish and wet down the fire.
Chief John Mauro and Lt./EMT-P Christian Dano transfer water from Engine 21 into Engine 22.
Lt./EMT Kevin Moran pulls more hose line.
Lt./EMT George "Skip" Hubley and FF/EMT Tony Alessi wet down the hot spots.
FF Matthew Hubley wets down the other side of the fire.
Fire Lt./EMT-I James Peltier and Sergeant Sean James of the Southborough Police Department, both members of the joint Fire/Police Fire Investigation Unit recover evidence at the point of origin.
Sgt. James and Lt./EMT-I Peltier gather evidence.