Partnership with Public Works
On May 21, Fire crews, from Station 2, responded to the area of Midway and Washington for a
smoke check. Upon investigation, the smoke was determined to be exiting the storm drains. A full-structure fire response was initiated. The homeless frequent these drainage pipes that exit into the flood control, whereas fires are started from the accumulation of refuse and other debris. Our Partners in Public Works were called to assist by utilizing a ruggedized “robot” that has a range of nearly 2000 feet and is designed specifically to go up drainage pipes. The robot provided lighting for its camera system and allowed the fire units to locate the exact fire location and confirm that no personnel was present. Fire crews
conducted indirect water application to control and extinguish the fire. The robot is a fantastic tool provided by Public Works and we thank them for their assistance.
Attic Fire
On May 25, Fire crews were dispatched to a report of a structure fire on Valley Grove Lane. Station 4 crews were the first to arrive and reported smoke coming from the attic of the two-story home. Firefighters initiated an aggressive interior attack with multiple hose lines inside the residence. Due to unstable conditions caused by the fire, firefighters were forced to exit the structure and take a defensive approach to containing the fire. It took 25 firefighters nearly
2 hours to contain the fire due to the size of the structure and heavy fire load. The homeowner and firefighters safely exited the structure uninjured. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Also, on May 25, Fire crews from Station 4 visited LR Green School. Over 90 students and teachers were thrilled to spend time visiting with firefighters and taking pics of the engine. Escondido Fire Department is happy to share what we do with our community and are thankful for these opportunities.
