Bristol, R.I. — July 5 — The Tiverton Fire Department was dispatched at 9:22 p.m. following a report of a structure fire. Based on initial information from Tiverton police, a second alarm and tanker task force were requested before fire crews arrived. The southern portion of Tiverton does not have municipal water or fire hydrants, requiring tanker trucks to shuttle water to fires in the area.

Upon arrival, firefighters encountered heavy fire showing from three sides of the attached garage, with flames already extending into the attic. Two vehicles parked in the driveway were also on fire. All occupants had safely escaped the residence before firefighters arrived.

Crews launched simultaneous attacks, with firefighters working inside the home to stop the flames from spreading through the attic while other crews attacked the garage and burning vehicles from the exterior. A third alarm was requested to bring additional personnel and resources to the scene.

Bristol firefighters joined crews from Tiverton and numerous surrounding departments during the response. Mutual aid was also provided by Little Compton, Westport, Fall River, Portsmouth, Middletown, Dartmouth District 3, Newport Naval Station, Warren and Swansea fire departments. The Providence Canteen responded to provide rehabilitation services for firefighters working at the scene.

The fire was brought under control in approximately one hour. Firefighters remained at the residence for several more hours conducting overhaul operations and extinguishing hot spots. No civilians or firefighters were injured.

The Tiverton Fire Marshal’s Office investigated the fire with assistance from the Rhode Island State Fire Marshal’s Office. Investigators determined the fire was accidental and was caused by the improper disposal of fireworks.

The large mutual-aid response provided Tiverton with additional personnel and resources as firefighters worked to contain the fire and protect the remainder of the home. The Tiverton Fire Department thanked Bristol and its other mutual-aid partners for their assistance during the incident.