DeKalb County fire crews responded to a couple of house fire last week, with both being extinguished before causing major damage.
On Friday morning, November 17, at approximately 7:15 a.m., the DeKalb County Fire Department was dispatched to 1910 Magness Road for a report of a structure fire. The homeowners reported finding smoke coming from one of their bedrooms, called 911, and quickly evacuated the home.
The Main Station Engine 59, and Belk Engine 66 responded to the scene, along with firefighters from other stations. DeKalb County Sheriff's Department and DeKalb County Emergency Medical Services were also called the scene to render assistance.
As sheriff deputies arrived on the scene, they located a fire at the water heater disconnect switch, in a bedroom closet, and turned off the main electrical breaker. Firefighters arrived and determined the fire was extinguished after the power was disconnected.
The home was ventilated to clear the smoke and only minor damage to the structure was reported. One occupant was evaluated by DeKalb Emergency Medical Services for minor smoke inhalation, but was not transported. The cause of the fire was determined to be a faulty electrical disconnect for the water heater.
On Saturday, at approximately 11:48 p.m., fire crews responded to a structure fire on Moore-Taylor Road in the Midway Community. The owners reported that as they returned home, they heard their smoke alarms and discovered heavy smoke when they opened the exterior door. They reported the fire to DeKalb 911 Dispatch Center.
Midway Engine 63, Johnson’s Chapel Engine 68, Four Seasons Engine 57, Main Station Engine 59, and Cookeville Highway Engine 61 responded to the scene along with the DeKalb County Sheriff Department and DeKalb Emergency Medical Services.
When sheriff deputies and firefighters arrived, they found heavy smoke and fire in a bedroom and confirmed that no occupants were inside. Firefighters were able to extinguish the fire and keep the blaze contained to the bedroom. Other areas of the home did receive extensive smoke, heat, and water damage. The cause of the fire is currently undetermined.
In related news, due to drought conditions in the area and the extreme risk of fire, DeKalb County has issued a burn ban. The resolution reads as follows:
Whereas, DeKalb County, Tennessee strives to provide excellence in public safety with the protection of the members of our community always regarded as our top priority.
Whereas, For the 3rd consecutive week, DeKalb County is in the D3 (extreme drought) category on the U.S. Drought Monitor.
Whereas, Of November 9th, 70.07% of DeKalb County is in D3 level and it is expected, 100% of DeKalb County, will be in D3 when the November 16th Drought Monitor update is issued.
Whereas, While there is some chance of precipitation in the next 7 days, the prediction is isolated and not expected to alleviate the current drought level situation.
Whereas, DeKalb County Fire Department has seen a significantly increased call volume in relation to woodland/grassland fires in the last 3 weeks.
Whereas, numerous development projects underway where construction and vegetation burning typically occur in the wildland interface in DeKalb County which poses additional threats in areas with poor access where firefighters are limited in their ability to protect structures.
Whereas, DeKalb County Fire Chief Donny Green provided a recommendation for a burn ban to be issued immediately due to the conditions and increased number of woodland or grass fires in DeKalb County.
Be It Further Resolved, that County Mayor Matt Adcock calls for a burn ban pursuant to Tennessee Code Annotated 39-14-306, to be enacted immediately and residing until safe conditions are present.
