First Baptist-CS 911028DATE:
TO:
FROM:
SUBJECT:
OC 29 1991
October 28, 1991 PUBLIC WORKS
Mayor and City Council ~ /~.~
Alan D. Ratliff, City Manager
First Baptist Church Fire
As you are aware, a fire occurred this morning at the First Baptist
Church. Persons within the building and in the vicinity have
stated that they smelled smoke shortly after hearing a very loud
thunderclap indicating a close and violent lightning strike. Three
separate fires were located in the roof and ceiling area of the
church.
The department had eight people on duty and two who had not yet
left from the previous shift. They were held over to assist in
fighting this fire. Mutual aid was requested and received, with
one engine from Carrollton, one engine from Irving, and ultimately
a ladder truck from Irving which provided additional salvage
equipment.
The Fire Department immediately attempted to protect the organ with
tarps and then commenced fighting the fire. Damage was done
primarily to the attic, ceiling, and roof, in an area immediately
adjacent to the sanctuary. Fire fighters were able to break
through the roof and the ceiling and soon tapped out the fire.
Backup vehicles and personnel for our fire stations were supplied
by the City of Grapevine and D/FW Airport. A total of
approximately 21 fire fighters participated in this fire
suppression action.
We were extremely pleased with the rapid response and the
aggressive attack that these fire personnel initiated against this
Mayor and City Council
October 28, 1991
Page 2
fire. It is my understanding that with cleanup and roof repairs,
it may be possible to have church services in the sanctuary next
Sunday.
ADR/slt
cc: Directors
fire.fbc