It was a busy day for the Antioch Fire Department yesterday when they responded to a structure fire at 208 Birchwood. The call came in at 2:30 PM, and upon arrival, firefighters discovered a fully involved detached two-car garage. Unfortunately, the intense flames spread to a nearby camper and a boat parked in the driveway, resulting in all three being a complete loss. Mutual aid support was quickly dispatched from neighboring stations in Fox Lake, Lake Villa, and Round Lake. After an extensive investigation, the cause of the fire appears to have been electrical in nature.
The response effort was robust, with various vehicles deployed to the scene. One of the primary engines on-site was Antioch Engine 211, a 2000 model Alexis mounted on an American LaFrance chassis. This engine was strategically positioned to connect to a hydrant, ensuring a steady water supply throughout the operation. Additionally, Antioch Truck 211, a 2000 ALexis/American LaFrance/LTI tower ladder, was also placed near a hydrant to assist in reaching higher areas if needed.
The department still relies on some classic firefighting vehicles, such as their 1983 Pirsch tanker, which carries an impressive 2,500 gallons of water. This workhorse was present at the fire, contributing significantly to the firefighting efforts. Another vital piece of equipment on-site was Antioch Tender 211, a 2004 International Harvester/US Tank vehicle capable of holding up to 3,000 gallons of water. Its powerful pump system played a crucial role in managing the blaze.
After the flames were extinguished, firefighters used the Quad 2 Rehab unit to take a much-needed break. This mobile station provided them with food, drinks, and a place to rest before heading back out to other potential emergencies. Meanwhile, Antioch Squad 2195, a 1996 model Alexis vehicle, was brought in to provide additional equipment and supplies for the investigating team. This versatile squad car ensured that all necessary tools were available for thorough examination of the incident.
As cleanup operations continued, firefighters worked diligently to navigate a 2.5-inch hose line into what remained of the charred garage. At the same time, other crew members carefully inspected the damaged camper in the driveway, documenting the extent of the damage caused by the fire. Photographer Jeff Rudolph captured these critical moments, offering a glimpse into the hard work and dedication exhibited by the Antioch Fire Department during this challenging situation.
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