On Wednesday, August 9, 2018 at 1545 the Christiana Fire Company was alerted for a motor vehicle accident in the 1100 block of Simmontown Road. The company responded with the Engine, Squad and Chief 52 finding a minor accident with a vehicle into a tree with no injuries.

At 1554 command was notified of a second call in the district for a Dwelling on the other side of the township. The Engine, Squad and Chief 52 was able to redirect and respond to 30 High Street in Sadsbury Township. As they approached the area a large column of smoke was observed and Chief 52 upgraded the box alarm assignment to a working fire. Tanker 52 as well at brush 52 made the response shortly after the dispatch.

On arrival, fire was throughout the entire roof and second floor area. Several hose lines were placed into service and crews were able to knock the bulk of the fire. There was extensive overall to the dwelling, which required additional resources and personnel to assist during this operation. As crews were working on removing items from the structure an officer from rescue 57 found the family cat still alive and reunited it with owners.

The cause of the fire was due to a lighting strike.

Temperatures in the 90's with high humidity definitely took a toll on all the crews working. Station 52 would like to thank all of mutual aide companies (many of whom were also busy last night with a barn fire in Gap) for helping us with this incident.

We would also like to thank Gordonville fire company and Witmer fire company for standing by and helping us get back into service.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family during this difficult time.