Sunday August, 15 2021 @ 00:21

Nature: Structure Fire

Location: 24865 Rivers Edge Rd Stonewater Creek, DE 19966

Early Sunday morning, August 15^th, the Indian River (80), Lewes (82), and Millsboro (83) fire companies were alerted for a residential structure fire on Rivers Edge Road in the Stonewater Creek development of Indian Mission Road. Additional emergency alerts included the Sussex County Paramedics and the Mid Sussex Rescue Squad which reported smoke showing upon their arrival. 

Emergency response units from Indian River included Tower 80, Tanker 80, Rescue 80 and Chief 80-15 from the Oak Orchard facility as well as Engine #80-3 from the Long Neck facility and the Delaware State Fire Police. 

Emergency response crew assignments included but not limited to a 360 evaluation and search for the root of the concern as well as utility service shut off to the structure.  It was reported to be a lightning strike with the passing inclement weather.  Engine #80-3 advanced two 1¾“  fire suppressions lines to the structure and the fire was identified to be in the first floor crawl space on side "B".  One fire suppression was utilized by the interior crew and the second line was utilized by the crew making access via the man-door to the crawl space.  Access areas were cut into the flooring to fully expose and extinguish the extend of the fire.  Once the fire was isolated, activation of positive pressure ventilation was utilized to clear the residence of smoke.  Tower 80 did set up for access to the roof area of the structure if needed.  A water supply was established by tapping the nearby fire hydrant as well as awaiting apparatus if needed.  Assistance was requested by the homeowners to locate their two feline companions.  All responding personnel from Millsboro and Lewes were utilized for various assignments associated with suppression, ventilation, and salvage and recovery.  It was necessary for the residents to find temporary housing accommodations. 

The Dagsboro (73) and Georgetown (77) fire companies were utilized to provide standby cover-up assignments for the responding companies.

The Delaware State Fire Police coordinated traffic and scene access for the duration of the incident.

The Delaware State Fire Marshal’s Office investigating.