Early Sunday morning at 2:27 a.m., the East Brandywine Fire Company was dispatched as part of a mutual-aid assignment to the 700 block of Southern Drive in West Whiteland Township for a reported house fire.

Engine 49-2 made the response within minutes with five members. While en route, Assistant Chief 51 (West Chester) arrived on scene and reported a working fire in the rear of the residence. Chief 6 (West Whiteland) arrived shortly thereafter and confirmed the working fire.

Engine 6-1 and Ladder 6 (West Whiteland) arrived and went into service, with Engine 6-2 securing the hydrant. Engine 49-2 arrived as the 3rd due engine, and crews went to the interior to back up the initial attack lines, opening up and looking for hidden fire to assist suppression efforts.

Firefighters operated under gusty winds, extreme cold, and snow- and ice-covered conditions surrounding the home. The fire was brought under control in short order, followed by extensive overhaul.

In total, Engine 49-2, Utility 49-1, Battalion 49, and Chief 49 responded with 12 East Brandywine volunteers.