First Due House Fire
on Cheetah Ct. for Co. 12

March 29, 0929 hours
reported by Fire 3 Deputy Chief D. J. Mills and PIO/Lt. Jeff Duer

Units from the Waldorf Volunteer Fire Department and surrounding companies were alerted to Cheetah Ct for the house fire. Capt. 3 (Duer) arrived on scene and reported smoke showing from the rear and roof. Sheriff's Deputies reported that there was possibly a dog trapped. Capt. 3 conducted a primary search locating a dog in the second floor master bedroom, removing to the front yard. Rescue Engine 123 arrived on scene with there own hydrant and advanced a 1 ¾ pre-connect into the home, checked the first floor and then quickly repositioned to the second floor where the bulk of the fire was located. Engine 32 laid a secondary line and took a backup line to the second floor. Chief 3B (Mills) arrived on scene assuming the Cheetah Ct. Command with Chief 3 (D. Stevens) having safety and Chief 12B (Stewart) having Interior. Units from 3 and 12 worked together to extinguish the fire while Truck 1 and Engine 112 opened up the entire second floor. P.G. Engine 824 was sent to the garage area to check for extension in the garage attic area where they found some minor extension and were assisted by Truck 1's roof team with controlling it. Squad 7 was assigned the RIT and EMS 16B had the EMS group. Units worked on scene for about 2 hours.

Damage was estimated at $180,000. The Maryland State Fire Marshal's Office is conducting the investigation. One firefighter sustained a minor ankle injury; there were no other reported injuries. The dog is doing fine with his family.

The family is being assisted by the Charles County Chapter of the American Red Cross and their insurance company.