Two Warrenton firefighters were rescued after falling into a basement when a floor collapsed while crews battled a house fire Friday afternoon in the Marthasville Fire Protection District.
The blaze was reported at 2:09 p.m. March 20 when smoke was observed coming from a residential structure in the 23000 block of Smith Creek Road, located in southwestern Warren County.
During interior operations, firefighters from Warrenton were checking the stability of the floor when it suddenly gave way, sending two firefighters into the basement below. A mayday was immediately declared, according to a press release.
Crews on scene quickly shifted to rescue operations, and an additional alarm was requested, bringing more personnel and two additional ambulances. Both firefighters were located and rescued in less than three minutes, officials said.
The firefighters were evaluated at the scene by emergency medical personnel. One additional firefighter sustained a minor injury and was transported to the hospital for further evaluation. That firefighter has since been released and has returned home, according to the press release.
“Incidents like this serve as a powerful reminder of the risks firefighters face. Two of our own — teammates and family members from Warrenton — fell through a floor and required immediate rescue,” said in a statement from the Marthasville Fire Protection District.
“We train for these situations. Crews were gaining access to these firefighters through several fronts. That training made the difference.
“When the Mayday was called, our mutual aid partners responded without hesitation. Their rapid response and teamwork ensured a successful outcome of today’s structure fire.”
As first responders were dispatched to the scene, Marthasville Fire Chief Sean Johnson established command upon arrival and reported smoke showing from the structure. It was initially unknown whether anyone was inside.
The first arriving engine, a crew of four from Warrenton, began fire attack operations, while six personnel from Marthasville established water supply, assisted with hose deployment and conducted a primary search.
Following the rescue, crews resumed fire suppression efforts and brought the blaze under control. Firefighters remained at the scene for several hours conducting overhaul operations.
A search of the residence confirmed no occupants or pets were inside at the time of the fire.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Missouri State Fire Marshal’s Office.
