2-11 Alarm fire in Chicago, 3-21-20
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It's just past midnight on March 21, 2020, and the 15th Battalion has arrived at the scene of a structure fire on 38th and Ashland, specifically at 3752 South Ashland Avenue. Upon arrival, they quickly identified it as an active fire within a building and immediately began operations. Almost 20 minutes into the firefighting efforts, the battalion commander made the decision to transition to a more defensive strategy and requested a Still & Box assignment. This move was prompted by concerns for firefighter safety, as all personnel were pulled out to reassess the situation.
One firefighter was transported in serious condition to the hospital following an incident that occurred inside the burning building. The incident highlights the inherent risks faced by firefighters even when adhering to strict protocols. During the operation, three 2.5-inch fire hoses were deployed, and aerial ladder trucks were brought in to assist. The aerial master streams were provided by TL39, AT8, and Sq1’s Snorkel. These resources played a critical role in containing the fire and protecting nearby structures.
Interestingly, this marked the first time AT8 used its newly installed waterway system during a live fire scenario. Despite the severity of the blaze, a 2-11 assignment—indicating an emergency requiring significant resources—was eventually called for by 2-2-4. However, many of the units designated for the 2-11 response did not end up being fully utilized due to the effective initial deployment strategies.
The images accompanying this report capture the intensity of the fire, showing massive flames consuming the structure under the cover of darkness. It’s a stark reminder of the challenges faced by Chicago’s firefighters, who work tirelessly to protect lives and property amidst dangerous conditions. The photos also showcase various apparatuses, including E-ONE CR-137, highlighting the modern equipment available to support their mission.
As always, our thoughts are with the injured firefighter and the entire crew involved in this demanding operation. The dedication and courage displayed by these first responders continue to inspire respect and gratitude across the community.