Explosion Leads To Fire In Fairfield: Officials

FAIRFIELD, CT — A quick response and aggressive fire attack by Fairfield Firefighters prevented further damage caused by a fire, which the residents said was preceded by an explosion at a Half Mile Road single family home Saturday, according to fire officials. The monetary save from the fire is estimated to be about $350,000, officials said.

The residents were able to escape the fire and call 911 in a timely fashion, according to officials. Within 11 minutes of the first alarm, 20 firefighters arrived on the scene and were faced with an extensive fire that engulfed the rear of the 2,100-square-foot colonial home. Fire and smoke could be seen towering over the home from across the street by neighbors as the fire attempted to gain control of the interior, officials said.

“LT Phil Higgins and Engine Company One stretched the first hose line to control the fire,” Assistant Chief Erik Kalapir wrote in a press release. “The ladder company prepared for rooftop ventilation and utilized hand tools to access concealed burnings areas. Toxic and cancerous smoke was removed from the residence by the rescue company using powerful fans.

“There were no occupant or firefighter injuries associated with this incident. The occupants were able to escape and notify Fairfield Emergency Communication Center in a timely fashion. Mutual-aid fire companies from Westport and Bridgeport responded for station coverage.”

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Kalapir reminded all residents that “proper spacing of 10 feet from combustibles needs to be provided for grilling appliances, and please make sure that all propane connections are tight before use.”

Photo and video credit: Corey Gripp, Fairfield Fire Department.