| On January 31, just before 1730 hours, Chief 45 reported a major gas leak in the area of the Downingtown National Bank on Brandywine Avenue in Downingtown Borough. Stations 45 and 46 responded and discovered a 4 inch gas main which had been struck by utility crews. As Downingtown and mutual aid units began to cordon off the area, standbys were requested to cover the Borough. Station 51 was dispatched and Engine 51-2 responded to Station 45.
Engine 51-2 staffed Station 45 with an Engine from 39, 48, and Tower 6 for an hour before being dispatched to investigate a report of a second gas leak in the area of Cherry and Washington Streets in Downingtown Borough. Engine 51-2 responded and investigated, determining that the odor was related to the large leak in the center of the Borough.
Engine 51-2 cleared and Chester County Fire Board reassigned the crew to standby at Station 46. Engine 68-2 was dispatched to fill Engine 51-2's assignment at Station 45. After another hour at Station 46, Engine 51-2, Engine 68-2, Tower 6, and Ambulance 41-1 were dispatched to the Wegman's Food Market in East Caln Township for an odor investigation inside. Calls to 911 reported an electrical burning odor inside the store.
Engine 51-2 arrived first due at 2109 and began to investigate while Lt McClure established the "Wegman's Command". Tower 6 arrived and set up on Side A, assisting Engine 51-2's crew, followed by Engine 68-2 who picked up the hydrant for water supply. Interior crews, led by Lt Kramer, reported an odor of smoke and a haze in the area of the bakery. Command requested Engine 48-5 respond to the scene and take position on Side C at 2116 hours.
The assignment was eventually held to Engine 51-2 and Tower 6. Units cleared the scene at 2127 hours. Engine 51-2 was then released by Chief 45, returning back to West Chester at 2200 hours. |
