KEYSTONE LAKE — North 48 Fire Department crews responded to two separate fire incidents over a two-day span last week, including a shed fire, a grass fire along the Cimarron Turnpike and a working structure fire, officials said.
The first incidents occurred Jan. 23, when North 48 was requested for mutual aid by Peninsula Fire Department at approximately 9:20 a.m. for a reported shed fire. North 48 responded with five apparatus and nine personnel, arriving on scene in about five minutes to assist Peninsula crews. Cleveland Fire Department also responded.
Crews cleared the scene around 10:10 a.m., but were soon dispatched to a grass fire along the Cimarron Turnpike near mile marker 56. Firefighters arrived within three minutes and found a small but fast-moving fire on the north side of the roadway, driven by windy conditions. Officials said the fire’s spread was slowed and stopped by the turnpike, with winds blowing from the north.
The following morning, Jan. 24, North 48 firefighters were dispatched at approximately 8:10 a.m. to a working structure fire within the department’s district. Because the station was staffed at the time, an engine was en route within minutes. Multiple mutual aid departments were requested due to extreme weather conditions and the lack of fire hydrants in the area.
Firefighters worked in temperatures around 6 degrees with wind chills near minus 8 degrees. Crews battled frozen nozzles, hose lines and icy conditions while remaining on scene until approximately 10:45 a.m.
Several animals were rescued from the structure, though officials said some were lost. Two bedrooms sustained heavy fire damage, while two additional bedrooms and other living areas suffered significant water and smoke damage.
Cleveland Fire Department, Peninsula Fire Department, Terlton Fire Department and Jennings Fire Department assisted at the scene.
North 48 officials praised the efforts of volunteer firefighters and noted the recent completion of the department’s bunk room, which allows crews to remain at the station around the clock during periods of increased call volume or severe weather.
Officials emphasized that the response to both incidents reflected strong cooperation among area fire departments and the continued dedication of volunteer firefighters serving the community.