Last Thursday night, the Meerlieu Fire Brigade responded to a structure fire at Hollands Landing.
On arrival they found a two-storey Hardiplank and weatherboard home fully engulfed in flames.
Fortunately, the owner had evacuated safely before their arrival.
Crews initially began with a direct attack until additional appliances arrived, bringing Breathing Apparatus (BA) teams who were able to get up close and apply water through external openings.
The smoke was particularly toxic due to burning batteries and the potential presence of asbestos, making condition extremely hazardous.
This incident once again proved the value of joint training between neighbouring brigades from both District 10 and 11.
Knowing each other’s appliances and many of the members having met before, helped ensure a smooth and coordinated response.
Meerlieu were assisted by the Perry Bridge, Lindenow, Stratford, Bairnsdale
and Bengworden Fire Brigades.
Other appliances that supported were Stratford Fire Brigades Tanker, Bengworden Fire Brigades Tanker, Lindenow Fire Brigades Tanker, Bairnsdale Fire Brigades BA Support
Unfortunately for the occupant the house was a total loss with, fire investigators arriving on Friday to ascertain the exact cause of the fire.
