| Late last night at 11:44 PM, the East Brandywine Fire Company and our mutual aid departments were dispatched to a residence in the 1100 block of E. Reeceville Road for a reported house fire after the home was struck by lightning.
Residents reported smoke in the basement and advised they were evacuating the home prior to our arrival.
Safety 49 arrived first and reported nothing showing from the exterior. Engine 49-1 arrived shortly after and stretched a precautionary 1¾-inch handline to the front door while crews made entry to investigate. Firefighters encountered a light smoke condition and an electrical odor throughout portions of the residence.
Ladder 49 arrived next and assisted Engine 49-1's crew with the interior investigation while also checking the exterior of the home for any signs of fire extension.
Within minutes, crews located the source of the smoke and odor to an electrical outlet in the basement that had been damaged by the lightning strike. Fortunately, there was no visible fire, and the outlet was secured, eliminating the hazard. The incident was then scaled back to East Brandywine units, and all mutual aid companies were recalled.
East Brandywine Fire Company responded with 14 volunteers staffing Engine 49-1, Ladder 49, and Rescue 49.
⚡ Lightning Safety Reminder: Even if there are no visible flames after a lightning strike, electrical wiring and outlets can sustain hidden damage. If your home is struck by lightning and you notice smoke, a burning odor, or any signs of electrical issues, evacuate the home and call 9-1-1 immediately. |
