The Danville Fire Department was dispatched to a house fire at 146 White St. this afternoon at 12:43 pm. The first unit arrived on scene at 12:46 to find a medium size one-story house with heavy smoke showing. The fire was found to be in the basement and had quickly extended to the first floor. All occupants were out of the house on our arrival. Damage to the house was major due to the amount of fire throughout the residence. An interior fire attack was initiated, but quickly turned to a defensive operation due to the amount of fire spread. Six members of the household were displaced and are being attended to by the American Red Cross. One neighbor was transported to the emergency room due to smoke inhalation. No other injuries were reported.
The DFD responded with four engines, one ladder truck, and five support vehicles. A total of 27 personnel responded and were on scene for approximately 4 hours.
The Fire Marshal's Office investigated and determined the cause to be a child playing with a lighter.
B.W. Scearce
Captain