Detroit Scorcher

Defensive attack douses
vacant-building blaze

On May 1, Detroit 5th Battalion companies responded to a reported dwelling fire at Pingree and Second streets. Upon arrival, Engine 39 advised they were stretching line on a vacant dwelling with fire involved throughout. Chief 5 then requested an additional company to serve as the rapid intervention team. The chief arrived and performed size-up, deciding the fire would be fought defensively. It was brought under control in 1 ½ hours using the full box-alarm assignment, plus an extra two engines and a truck. Engines 39, 35, 17, 5 and 23; ladders 7 and 28; squad 2; and chief 5 responded to this alarm.