Emergency personnel were called to the basement of a duplex home in Coaldale around 12:10 AM today (Wednesday, May 14, 2014) for a report of a dryer on fire. First responders arrived to see heavy smoke emanating from 242 West Ridge Street, as well as light smoke coming from the adjacent property at 240 West Ridge Street.
A short while into the response, firefighters could be seen carrying a smoking dryer out of 242 West Ridge Street and placing it on the sidewalk. That is when firefighters removed the items from the dryer and extinguished them with water. Firefighters also placed large exhaust fans at entrances and exits to the homes to expel the smoke.
A man and woman from 242 W. Ridge Street and an elderly woman from 240 W. Ridge Street were temporarily displaced while officials tended to the fire and smoke. During the response, friends and neighbors could be seen comforting all three people.
Witnesses said that police and firefighters had everything under control within a short while.
On scene were Coaldale Fire Company, Coaldale Police, Coaldale Fire Police, Tamaqua Ambulance and others. Firefighters from other surrounding municipalities were also called, but later canceled.
Emergency responders remained on scene for about 2 hours. No injuries were reported.
The Tamaqua Salvation Army offered help to the elderly woman.
TamaquaArea.com 