| At 1:40 p.m. on Tuesday, May 6, the Melfa Volunteer Fire and Rescue Company was dispatched to a reported structure fire in the 22000 block of Airport Road in Melfa. Initial 911 reports indicated smoke and flames showing from a commercial chicken house, prompting a large multi-agency response.
Upon arrival, Melfa’s Engine 86 found two chicken houses heavily involved in fire, with a large propane tank situated between them beginning to flare off—a potentially life-threatening hazard. Firefighters immediately deployed a 2½-inch hand line to cool and protect the propane tank, while two additional 1¾-inch lines were used to defend nearby exposures.
Due to the scale of the incident, multiple fire stations were alerted, including Onancock, Tasley, Wachapreague, Painter, and Parksley. As the situation escalated, additional resources were called in from Bloxom, Exmore, Atlantic, Northampton, and Eastville.
Command was established by Onancock Fire Chief M. Rydberg (Chief 9), with operations led by Parksley Fire Chief W. Kirkpatrick (Chief 7) and water supply coordinated by K. Paul. A portable master stream was set up using a ladder truck, supplied by Engine 86 through 5-inch large diameter hose. Water was relayed to Engine 86 by Engine 11-5 using additional large diameter hose.
Crews worked tirelessly for nearly four hours to bring the fire under control, performing extensive suppression, salvage, and overhaul operations. Thanks to the coordinated effort and decisive actions of all departments involved, firefighters successfully prevented the fire from spreading to a third nearby chicken house.
Additional support was provided on scene by Accomack County Department of Public Safety, Suburban Propane, ANEC, and the Virginia Department of Forestry.
This incident serves as a strong reminder of the danger posed by flammable gas storage near structures and the importance of rapid intervention by trained personnel.
Fire Safety Tip: Ensure all propane tanks are properly maintained and kept at safe distances from buildings. Regular inspections and emergency planning can help reduce risks in agricultural and commercial settings.
To support the work of your local volunteer fire departments, consider volunteering, donating, or following Melfa Volunteer Fire and Rescue on social media for updates and safety information. |
