Tewksbury 2nd Alarm - 36 Chandler St. - 11/17/16

Tewksbury Firefighters were dispatched to a reported house fire IAO 42 Chandler St. Police on scene reported heavy fire showing with a confirmation of such by the first arriving fire company.

A 2nd alarm was requested on arrival with a heavy fire condition on side B of 36 Chandler, a 1.5 story wood frame home under renovation. A vacant 1 story brick that used to house a florist was attached on the B side and also involved in fire. TFD currently has no ladder truck as they're awaiting a new piece, so Wilmington Fire's 100' rearmount tower ladder was brought in to the scene to work.

While the heavy fire on the exterior was knocked down in short order, the fire had extended into the attic of the home and took full control. On arrival, the Wilmington crew set up and vented the roof near the B side. Fire could be seen venting through the freshly cut hole ans well as self venting thru the gable vent on the D side of the home. Firefighters ran multiple lines around the building as it was a defensive operation from the start due to the homes renovation status.

The fire took about 1 hour to bring under full control and companies remained on the scene for a time to check for extension, overhaul and souse hot spots. Several local communities provided mutual aid coverage at Tewksbury's 3 firehouses. A cause is still under investigation.