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WASHINGTON, DC - On February 17th, 2008 at approximately 12:48 am DCFD responded on a Box Alarm at 3594 Hayes Street, NE for a report of a fire at the Mayfair Terrace apartment complex. First arriving units encountered smoke and fire in the second and third floors of an occupied apartment building and requested that the Working Fire Assignment be filled out. Due to previous water supply problems in this area of the District, the Firefighting Deputy Chief requested that three additional Water Supply Engines be added to the Working Fire Assignment.

As the fire started to extend through the cockloft and penetrated the roof, the Incident Commander requested that a Second Alarm be struck. DCFD units mounted an extremely aggressive interior attack and had the bulk of the fire knocked down within the first 30 minutes of the incident. A large diameter hose lay was put into place to augment the area’s water system, but the line was not charged. Units continued to work the scene, assisting fire investigators and overhauling the damaged apartments.

A Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority Bus was called for to provide a warm refuge for the displaced residents. The Friendship Fire Association also responded with their Canteen and Firefighter Rehab units. While most of the First Alarm Companies started clearing the scene by 0430 hours, an Engine remained at the apartment building for a fire watch. The cause of the fire is under investigation at this time. The hard-hitting actions of DCFD’s firefighters kept this fire from extending throughout the building and contained what had the potential of becoming a major incident.