This afternoon, I witnessed quite an intense fire incident in Prospect Heights. It all started around 2:30 PM when a call came in about a fire in an attached garage on Schoenbeck Road. By the time the first emergency vehicles arrived at 410 N. Schoenbeck Road, the situation had escalated rapidly. The garage was engulfed in flames, and the fire had already spread to the two-story house next to it.
Being close to the scene, I could see how challenging it was for the Prospect Heights Fire Department, especially since this area lacks hydrants. Their initial response included their 3,000-gallon tanker, two engines, a battalion chief, and an ambulance. Support quickly poured in from neighboring departments—Wheeling sent an engine, Mt. Prospect sent an ambulance, and Long Grove dispatched another tanker.
As the fire continued to grow, the department upgraded the response to a Code 4, bringing additional resources like an engine from Mt. Prospect, a tower ladder from Prospect Heights, and tankers from Palatine Rural and other areas. Even more reinforcements arrived as the alarm escalated to a MABAS Box Alarm, including units from Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Northfield, and several others.
The firefighting effort was immense. Prospect Heights Engine 9 used up its 750-gallon tank and the 3,000 gallons carried by Tanker 9, followed by Long Grove Tanker 55’s full capacity of 3,000 gallons. Establishing a secure water supply required laying out 2,500 feet of 5-inch hose to connect to a distant hydrant. It was a massive operation involving numerous departments working together to bring the fire under control.
The family living there managed to evacuate safely, but unfortunately, their pet didn’t make it out. Photographers Tim Olk and Larry Shapiro were present and captured some powerful images throughout the ordeal. Larry has an extensive gallery available [here](link), and Tim’s collection can also be viewed [here](link).
Even after the flames were mostly extinguished, the work wasn’t done. Firefighters still had to go through the process of overhaul, ensuring every last trace of fire was extinguished within the walls and structure. A firefighter on the second floor diligently checked for any potential fire extensions, highlighting the meticulousness required in such situations.
It was a stark reminder of the bravery and coordination needed in firefighting, especially in areas without immediate access to hydrants. The community spirit was evident as various departments rallied together to support Prospect Heights in what turned out to be a significant fire event.
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