Furnace Explodes in Residence

Just prior to 8pm on Wednesday January 30, 2013, a box alarm was sounded in company 33's area for smoke in a residence with possible furnace explosion. Chief 3-1 arrived on the scene reporting a two story single family residence with nothing evident from the exterior. Chief 3-1 established command. Rescue Squad 3 was the first piece of apparatus to arrive and assumed a position on Beall Dr. on the delta side of the structure. Engine 331 and Engine Tanker 34 arrived and utilized the half wrap driveway on the alpha side of the structure. Battalion 901 arrived and assisted at the command post. Engine Tanker 154 staged in front of Rescue Squad 3 leaving room for Truck 42 to position on the delta side adjacent to the structure. Crews investigating the basement division encountered moderate smoke conditions but no visible fire. Additional crews assigned to search the first and second floors of the structure to ensure all occupants were out. Command spoke with the homeowner who advised that all occupants were out of the structure to include two adults, two children and one canine. Interior crews utilized metering devices to monitor air quality in the structure. Continued inspection of the structure revealing partial porch roof collapse on the alpha side of the structure. Ventilation of the structure was started utilizing Truck 42's positive pressure ventilation fan. Command advising all units on the fire ground to remain out of the structure until investigation by the County Fire Marshall's Office and the County Building Inspector was complete. Interior crews that exited the structure advising command that there was definitely a malfunction of the home furnace system. Crews also advising that there was significant damage to the interior of the structure. The County Fire Marshall's Office deemed the structure uninhabitable, displacing the four occupants and their canine. Command ensured the occupants had suitable accommodations for the evening, which they did. Command was terminated, units clearing as ready.