Today at 10:28 am, the department was dispatched to 297 West 22nd for a residential fire. The first caller indicated that there was white smoke with a possible fire in the attic. Firefighters arrived on scene at 10:33 am and reported heavy smoke showing from the back of the 2 story two family dwelling. The first crew made entry to the smoke filled second story of to conduct a search for any occupants and to attempt to locate the fire . The search confirmed that nobody was in second floor apartment. First floor occupants were able to escape before calling 911.
After completing the search of the second-floor apartment the firefighters operating in this area were able to locate and slow the fire that was extending into the walls from where it originated in a lower-level roof area and into the second floor. As additional firefighters arrived on scene, they were able to make entry to the first floor and the rear exterior of the structure and extinguish the fire.
There were no injuries to occupants or firefighters because of the fire. The cause is being investigated however early indications suggest that the fire was not intentional, and a result of wiring located in the concealed attic space in the rear of the structure.
Assistance was received from Holland Police Department and the department’s Victims Services Unit. The Holland Township and Park Township Fire Departments responded to the scene with additional personnel and to resupply breathing air. The Graafschap and Hamilton fire departments provided coverage and responded to 3 additional calls that occurred while firefighters remained on scene for approximately two and a half hours.
With regard to damage, it is estimated that the residence sustained a loss of approximately $50,000 to the structure and contents. Quick efforts by the department contained the fire to a small portion of the residence and kept it from spreading to a neighboring home to the west. This prevented losses that could have amounted to an estimated $200,000.
Finally, smoke alarms were present and were operating in the smoke-filled areas of the home. The department would like to remind community members to install working smoke alarms and test them monthly. Your life may depend on them.
For questions or additional information please contact Captain Chris Tinney at 616-355-1023.