McKean Township, PA – This morning at around 11:45 AM, crews from the Mckean Hose Company were dispatched to a reported shed fire in the vicinity of 8900 Neuburger Road. Erie County Department of Public Safety soon provided an update indicating that the fire involved a 12x16 foot shed with an exposure to a 500-gallon propane tank and a nearby residential structure. Due to the developing situation and the threat to the nearby structure, the county initiated a first alarm structure fire response.

Additional fire departments were dispatched to assist, including Edinboro Volunteer Fire Department with two engines, Perry Hi-Way Hose Company with a tanker and an engine, West Ridge Fire Department with a ladder truck, and Fairview Fire and Rescue with both a tanker and an engine. Chief 400 reported seeing a smoke column, or header, from the area of Route 99 and West Road. County officials then advised that the fire had extended to the residence.

Upon arrival, firefighters encountered a fully involved shed fire that had extended into the attached garage. Engine 405 was directed to pull up the driveway and stretch a hoseline. Chief 400 instructed 405’s crew to apply water to the propane tank behind the structure to cool it down and prevent further hazard. Engine 405 used its deck gun to knock down visible flames while crews advanced lines to the rear of the structure. Engine 383 connected to 405’s line to help maintain water flow during the operation. A dump tank was set up at the scene, allowing tankers to offload water and ensure a continuous supply.

Initial water supply efforts focused on the KOA campground on West Road. However, the pond at that location was found to be too low, so crews shifted to using a nearby hydrant on West Road to support fire suppression operations. Engine 393 responded to assist with establishing the initial water supply. West County 111 was also dispatched to the scene to provide fire standby support.

During operations on scene, fire was reported to have spread interior in the attic. Crews were able to stop the further spread of the fire in the structure. At this point, Chief 400 reported a collapse of the garage. The Rehab trailer of Kuhl Hose Fire Department was requested to the fire grounds to assist with firefighter rehab and hydration. Crews remained on scene for some time ensuring that hotspots were eliminated and that no further extension occurred.