At around 1530hrs., Bethlehem Township fire companies were dispatched to a reported motor vehicle accident with injuries. Engine 1411 was on the road within a minute with six men. While responding, Engine 1411 was alerted that the company was being dispatched to a dwelling fire in the 2400 block of 15th street with fire reported in the basement and smoke showing. Engine 1411 diverted from the motor vehicle accident and went responding to the reported dwelling fire. Crews arrived to find smoke coming from the front door of a two-story single family dwelling. The engine officer, Safety Officer Bill Andress (1459), gave his size-up and established fire command as crews stretched and made entry into the dwelling with a single 1 3/4" hand line. The engine company made their way through the smoke condition, quickly finding the basement stairs. The fire was found in the basement and was extinguished quickly. Crews performed overhaul and found minor extension into the basement walls and ceiling. All searches were negative. Companies were available within an hour and a half.
