Two Turlock firefighters were treated for smoke inhalation and heat-related issues from their efforts to put out a residential fire during the blazing midday heat.
Both firefighters were treated at the scene and were released back to work, according to the fire department.
The fire was reported around 1:30 p.m. Friday at a home in the 4000 block of St. Joseph Place.
The first engine to arrive at the scene found flames and heavy smoke coming from the eaves of the two-story home. While some firefighters conducted a search and rescue of the residence to verify that all occupants were out of danger, others made their way to the roof to start battling the blaze that was burning in the attic.
“Aggressive actions by the first due engine company held the fire while truck company functions stopped the fire’s horizontal spread of smoke and flames,” said Turlock Fire Chief Robert Talloni.
The fire caused extensive damage to the attic and other portions of the home, according to the fire department. A total of 23 firefighters responded to the scene and were used to bring the fire under control. Turlock Rural Fire Department provided city coverage during the incident while all City of Turlock engines were at the scene.
“Overhaul for total fire extinguishment was extensive and time consuming,” Talloni said. “Crews were rotated as quickly as possible. Two firefighters did require attention from on-scene medical support.
“Firefighter training and physical conditioning was key to successful fire ground operations,” Talloni continued. “The average house fire burns at an inside temperature of about 1,100 degrees Fahrenheit. The outside temperature this day was about 105 degrees.”
The cause of the fire is undetermined and under investigation. The fire department did not state how many people were living at the home at the time of the fire.
“Once again, all 23 firefighters that fought this fire were flawless in their containment of the blaze,” said Turlock Mayor Gary Soiseth. “The firefighters, engineers, and chiefs that responded to this fire were dedicated to their mission, which was to contain the fire and keep it from spreading. This Council continues to be proud of their efforts to keep Turlock safe.”
