Laurelwood Condo Fire
February 20th, 2012 - Early Monday morning after a very snowy Sunday, Wintergreen Fire Department was dispatched for "smoke in a structure" at Laurelwood Condos. Engine 2 responded with a crew of 4 and was on-scene within 3 minutes of their response. Engine 1 also responded from Station Two in the valley.
Upon arrival at 6:05 crews encountered what initially appeared as a chimney on fire at a three-story 8-unit condominium building constructed with traditional wood framing and cedar siding. A few of the units were occupied. As crews were deploying lines and establishing a water supply it became apparent this was far more than a chimney that was on fire. Crews opted for an interior attack. Fire was discovered in four units, three of which required a forced entry. Smoke and water damage extended to two units and two units were unaffected. The rear of the structure was also heavily involved.
Within approximately 45 minutes the bulk of the fire was extinguished. Crews remained on the scene for an additional 90 minutes searching for extensions. It is suspected but not yet confirmed that the fire started near the fireplace in one of the units.
Although damage to a few of the units was extensive, no unit has been damaged beyond repair. There were no civilian injuries.
Wintergreen units on scene were Engine 1, Engine 2, Squad 1 (Cascade), Chief 1, Chief 2, Chief 3, Response 9, and ATV 1. Mutual-Aid units on-scene were Wilson Engine 191, Rockfish Trauma 56, and Faber Engine 30. Filling in at Wintergreen Station Two was Lovingston Engine 10.
Special thanks to Resort personnel for their assistance with dragging hose and to WPOA snow removal crews for their help dealing with the icy private parking lots.
