Structure Fire Brookside Road Tuesday March 31,2020

At 7:15 this morning the Great Barrington Fire Department was dispatched to 58 Brookside Road for a possible structure fire. The initial fire units arrived on scene in under 10 minutes and found fire venting from the second floor of a single family dwelling. The first alarm was requested with additional tankers due to limited water supply. 

The fire originated in a first floor wall and spread to a second floor bedroom. It was quickly brought under control. Damage was limited to the kitchen and bedroom and estimated to be around $40,000. 

The residents were evaluated by Southern Berkshire Ambulance for smoke inhalation but did not require treatment. There were no other injuries. 

The cause was determined to be from old framing in contact with the fireplace chimney. The house and contents were uninsured. The three residents were able to make other lodging arrangements and were referred to the Red Cross for additional assistance. 

Great Barrington responded with three engines, a ladder, a rescue and 15 firefighters. Additionally, an engine from Sheffield and tankers from Sheffield, Egremont, and Monterey, and a Rapid Intervention Team from Lenox responded mutual aid. Great Barrington Police and Southern Berkshire Ambulance also assisted on scene. 

“I would like to express my sympathy to the owners and tenants who suffered losses today. At this time, more than ever, it is difficult to go through such a tragedy. I am proud of our firefighters who did an excellent job of containing the fire and limited the damages,” said Chief Burger. 

For more information please contact:

Charles Burger, Chief, Great Barrington Fire Department