Chicago Engine 99 was dispatched to what was believed to be a rubbish fire last night in the rear of 3401 S. Lawndale Avenue, a location with guard dogs. Upon arrival, Engine 99 reported that the fire was inside the building and asked for a working fire response. Shortly thereafter the alarm was elevated to a full Box Alarm. Thick black smoke was escaping from the building which could be seen from several blocks away. 2-2-4 (Deputy District 4) reported fire through the roof on his arrival and escalated the alarm to a 2-11. The fire was in an industrial brick building with a steel deck roof. Snorkel 1, Tower 5, and Tower 54 used elevated master streams in addition to several 2-1/2″ hand lines.
Gordon J. Nord, Jr. was in the area and spotted the smoke from several blocks away. He arrived as companies were cutting the overhead doors to gain access to the building. He submitted several images depicting the progression of the fire attack.
Fire from the roof and thick black smoke from inside the building are visible as firefighters cut into a steel overhead door to gain access. Gordon J. Nord, Jr. photo
Firefighters direct a hand line into the building upon getting access to the fire. Gordon J. Nord, Jr. photo
Engine 99 puts their deck gun into operation as fire burns through the roof. Gordon J. Nord, Jr. photo
The deck gun from Engine 99 puts water on the roof as master streams from Squad 1, Tower Ladder 5 and Tower Ladder 54 prepare to go to work as well. Gordon J. Nord, Jr.
A heavy volume of fire burns inside the building and through the roof. Gordon J. Nord, Jr. photo
Two tower ladders and Squad 1's Snorkel were working in addition to the deck gun from Engine 99 and several hand lines. Gordon J. Nord, Jr. photo
Gordon has a complete gallery which can be viewed HERE.
