A College Park house is a total loss after a wind driven blaze this morning. Firefighters were alerted around 6:00 am, Saturday, February 19, 2011, to a house fire in the 8400 block of Potomac Avenue.
Upon arrival, firefighters encountered a 2-story wood frame single family home with heavy fire showing. The fire, being fanned by wind, was rapidly extending through the structure as well as 2 sheds in the back yard with extension to homes on each side.
An underground natural gas line at the next door neighbors house was allowing a release of the product . The natural gas was burning as it reached the surface level and was impinging on the structure. Firefighters kept this fire in check until Washington Gas Company workers shut the gas off at about 8:30 am. There was enough damage to this structure from the radiant heat and natural gas fire that the lone adult male occupant will be unable to stay there. He will make his own arrangements for shelter.
Three University of Maryland students normally reside in the house of origin. Two were at home and escaped safely prior to firefighters arrival. The displaced students were assisted by the Departments Citizen Services Unit, however, will not require any temporary shelter.
Several animals, including an exotic bird and some dogs were removed from danger by firefighters.
There were no injuries. The house is a total loss with an $400,000 estimate for structure and contents damage. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
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| Firefighters work to extinguish house fire in the 8400 block of Potomac Avenue. (photo by Jim Davis) |
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| Firefighters work to extinguish house fire in the 8400 block of Potomac Avenue. (photo by Jim Davis) |
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| Conditions on arrival by Billy Goldfeder |
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