Conditions Ripe On Wednesday For Devastating Phoenixville Blaze

PHOENIXVILLE, PA — Though an official cause of the destructive fire at a low income housing project on Wednesday has not yet been released, there are numerous factors that came together to create something of a perfect storm.

Chester County issued a "Red Flag" warning early Wednesday morning, indicating that weather conditions were ripe for a fire: low humidity, strong winds, and dry fuels.

And according to one fire suppression expert, certain construction sites are among the most dangerous places to be if a fire breaks out.

Steve Conboy, chairman and general manager of M-Fire Suppression, said that Wednesday's fire in Phoenixville "demonstrates a vulnerability" at construction sites. He said that untreated wood can create a tinder box effect that allows fires to spread even more quickly than it normally would.

>>'Stay Out Of Phoenixville' Authorities Warn As Destructive Fire Rages

It's not yet known the specific type of lumber that was in use at SteelTown Village, a project that generated some controversy when it was approved last fall. Patch has reached out to the developers, Petra Community Housing, for more information.

Conboy said that using treated lumber has become increasingly important, and pointed to recent examples of similar fires in Maryland and California as evidence.

“While the cause of the fire remains under investigation, fires at multi-family building sites are an enormous – and growing – epidemic across the nation, especially where new construction sites present a target for potential arsonists and other mischief," he added. "As we begin National Arson Awareness Week, these fires will be a wake-up call for builders to defend construction sites without delay, fulfilling its responsibility to community residents, construction workers, and first responders – as well as their investment in the project."

Crews were on the scene of the fire for more than four hours on Wednesday as they worked to extinguish the blaze, which damaged adjacent properties, spread ash to borough rooftops, and sent huge plumes of black smoke in the air which could be seen for miles.
The fire also led to several road closures and heavy traffic in the area as first responders raced to the scene.

Officials have not yet stated if there were any injuries.

Image via Trappe Fire Company No. 1