TONAWANDA, NY — August 20 — The Kenilworth Volunteer Fire Company No.1 received a call about a structure fire around 5 a.m.on Thursday, August 20.A passerby had noticed the fire and reported it.

Chief officers arrived at the scene within three minutes and found a fire burning inside a two-story residential building.

The department requested assistance from other fire companies because the first engine arrived shortly after.

Firefighters forced entry into the residence, which seemed to be empty and in the process of being renovated.

They found heavy heat and flames on the second floor, affecting two rooms and part of the attic.The crew advanced a handline and started attacking the fire.After about nine minutes from when they were called, they managed to reduce the majority of the fire.

Support came from the Ellwood Fire Department and the Kenmore Volunteer Fire Department.

The Erie County Sheriff's Office, the Town of Tonawanda Police Department, and the Town of Tonawanda Paramedics also responded to the incident.

The Kenilworth Volunteer Fire Company is based at 84 Hawthorne Ave., Tonawanda, NY 14223. Erie County records confirmed this address and the department’s listing.

This incident showed how important it is to quickly assess the situation, apply water early, coordinate interior firefighting efforts, and rely on mutual-aid support during a residential fire.