By Shannon McFarlin News Director
Springville, Tenn.–A shed and garage were destroyed by fire and the house was heavily damaged Monday evening in Springville. Three fire departments were dispatched to the scene. One person was treated for smoke inhalation. Icy conditions made it difficult for firefighters, who were slipping and falling due to water from the hoses freezing on the ice-covered yard.
The Paris Landing Fire Departent, Paris Fire Department, and Springville Fire Department, along with the Henry County EMS, Henry County Sheriff’s deputies and Paris BPU were called to 187 Lampley Circle in Springville.
Arriving units found the shed completely destroyed and the fire had already destroyed a neighboring garage and was spreading to the house.
Owner Aldie Tatum said he saw flames coming from the shed and called 911. He then attempted to fight the fire himself but was unable to as his water was frozen.
Paris Landing Fire Chief Reggie Coles said the shed and garage were a total loss with the house sustaining heavy flame, smoke and water damage. A male subject on the scene was treated by EMS for smoke inhalation but was not taken to the hospital.
Several firefighters received bumps and bruises from falling on the ice while fighting the fire. Coles said it’s a wonder no one was hurt. The water from the hoses was running and freezing on top of the ice-covered yard and everyone was slipping and falling. “Add to that, the icy roads while responding and shuttling water from the nearest hydrant and it was a nightmare!”
Coles said space heaters are the suspected cause. Damage is estimated at $100,000. The Red Cross has been notified to provide help.
Paris Landing sent three trucks and seven firefighters; Paris FD sent one truck and two firefighters and Springville sent one truck and three firefighters. They were on the scene for three hours.
Photo by Reggie Coles.