Second-alarm fire damages Renovo rowhouse; crews evacuate due to roof collapse threat

Second-alarm fire damages Renovo rowhouse; crews evacuate due to roof collapse threat

RENOVO, CLINTON CO. (WOLF) — Fire crews from Clinton, Lycoming and Centre counties responded Saturday evening to a second-alarm fire at a rowhouse-type building at 131 Fifth St. in Renovo Borough.

Clinton County Department of Emergency Services dispatch information shows crews were sent to the scene at about 5:35 p.m. The first caller reported the building was fully involved. Responding chiefs then reported smoke and flames showing, and fire later broke through the roof.

Command called for a second alarm at about 5:48 p.m., bringing additional crews and tankers to the scene. At about 6:06 p.m., firefighters were ordered out of the building because of the risk of a roof collapse.

A fire also started in a garage behind the building, according to radio traffic. Crews were directed to work on it from the rear. Because of the water needs, responders set up a fill site at a nearby boat launch and requested additional tankers. PPL was reported at the scene, and command requested UGI.

A fire marshal arrived at about 7:26 p.m. Two Lycoming County tankers were released at about 8:50 p.m.

The fire’s cause, e...