(Creston) On Thursday at around 3:53 p.m., Creston Firefighters responded to a working fire in the 600 block of North Chestnut. Upon arrival, firefighters observed flames coming through the bedroom windows. Fortunately, all residents had evacuated the home.
According to the Creston Fire Department Facebook Post, Fire crews quickly initiated a transitional attack, first tackling the flames from the exterior by applying water through the windows. This technique, called “resetting the fire,” allows firefighters to cool the fire compartment quickly, reducing its intensity. By doing so, they transition the fire from a rapidly escalating, high-heat stage back to a more manageable state, lowering temperatures and creating a safer environment for both the occupants and the firefighters.
Once additional personnel arrived, firefighters began an interior attack, entering the home with hoses to search for hot spots. Afton Volunteer Fire Department responded to a mutual aid request, assisting Creston Fire in the “overhaul” phase. During this phase, firefighters thoroughly searched for and extinguished hidden fires, smoldering areas, and other signs of heat. This involved opening walls and ceilings to check for fire extension into void spaces, moving debris, and wetting down or removing materials to prevent rekindling and ensure the scene was safe.
The Creston Police Department, Union County Sheriff’s Office, Greater Regional Health‘s Medic 1, and Union County Emergency Management Agency were also on-site to provide additional services and assist the displaced family.
Creston Fire completed their assignment at 6:07 p.m., but at 6:52 p.m., they were requested by SIRHA to return to the location to check for hot spots before securing the structure. Firefighters opened an additional section of the ceiling but found no smoldering areas. The cause of the fire is currently undetermined.
(Photo courtesy of the Creston Fire Department’s Facebook Page)
