Centre County home destroyed after firefighters battle blaze in freezing temperatures
A small manufactured home in Centre County, located less than a half-mile from Wasson Farm Market, was considered a “total loss” after a fire Tuesday afternoon engulfed it in less than an hour.
According to public emergency services information, the fire at 2564 Shingletown Road in Harris Township was ruled under control within 39 minutes of the first call going out. Unfortunately, the home appeared to be just 560 square feet, and Boalsburg Fire Company Chief Van Winter said the home was completely destroyed.
The homeowner was transported by ambulance and treated for smoke inhalation. No other injuries were reported.
“This is the most challenging environment,” said Boalsburg’s chief, Winter, when asked about the freezing cold. “... Your hands are getting wet, your gear’s getting wet, and everything is icing over. It’s just a miserable environment to work in.”
Due to the extreme cold, ice began forming on firefighters as they battled the blaze. And, once it was time to pack up, firefighters had to take special care the hoses were rolled up properly so they wouldn’t freeze either.
Firefighters then had to return to the scene early Wednesday morning, when a small kitchen sink cabinet continued to smolder.
“It was minus-5,” Winter said Wednesday. “Things pretty much freeze instantly in a scene like that.”
Boalsburg Fire Company was in command Tuesday, but others to respond included Alpha Fire Company and Centre Hall Volunteer Fire Company. The latter was called to bring an extra tanker, since the fire occurred in a rural area that doubled as a low- or no-hydrant area.
Winter referred questions about the cause of the fire to the Centre Region fire marshals, who did not immediately respond to a message seeking comment. But, when asked if he had a message for the greater community, Winter didn’t hesitate.
“Make sure if you’re out in this cold weather or if you’re using additional heat sources, make sure you’re doing everything safely,” he said. “Don’t use extension cords or put things too close to combustible materials.”
