The Duluth Fire Department responded to a structure fire at the intersection of E Palm Street and S Blackman Avenue on Friday morning.
The Miller Hill crew encountered a single-family, one-story house ablaze in the basement. Due to the structural conditions, a defensive approach was necessary to combat the fire. Seven engine crews deployed an attack line, while one engine crew established a connection to a nearby hydrant. The fire spread from the basement, through the first floor, and into the attic.
Teams from 7 Engine, 1 Engine, 1 Tower, Rescue 1, and 8 Q were actively involved in extinguishing the fire. Minnesota Power was summoned to cut off electricity to the site.
During the operation, a vehicle ran over a hydrant line, which is both illegal and highly hazardous. Such actions can exacerbate the challenges of firefighting and endanger the crew. The public is urged to reroute their path when encountering an active firefighting scene to prevent equipment damage.
There were no reported injuries associated with this event. The Duluth Fire Marshal’s office is currently investigating the incident.