Burbank Firefighters got the 911 call around 10:17 am and were on scene within minutes, finding what appeared to be some type of fire to the rear of Beauty Kiss Carpets & Draperies at 140 South Glenoaks Blvd.
Firefighters made entry into the front of the store and found smoke inside upon which they requested a 2nd-alarm, bringing equipment from Glendale and Pasadena Fire Departments. The fire quickly had gotten into the attic, and firefighters had a battle attempting to gain control. When fire started going thru the roof, firefighters had to vacate the roof and go into a defensive mode where they protected the buildings next to the building that was now fully involved in flames.
The Chief called for a third alarm, now getting all Burbank equipment to the scene and additional equipment from neighboring cities. As firefighters fought the fire from all sides, pouring thousands of gallons of water on the blaze, the Chief called a rare fourth alarm as the fire crews were starting to get fatigued and needed relief in the 80 or so degree heat.
The 4th alarm brought Firefighters from as far away as San Gabriel. Burbank Paramedics had to treat a total of 3 firefighters for heat related injuries, transporting one to a local hospital while the other two were hydrated and returned to continue fighting the fire. The firefighter who was hospitalized was released a short time later.
The cause is still under investigation, and damage is being reported as $ 1 million. The businesses to both side of the carpet store only received minor smoke damage.
Burbank Police closed Glenoaks Blvd.from Olive to Tujunga and MTA Buses were rerouted during the emergency.
Burbank Firefighters were going to keep a fire watch on scene throughout the night to make sure the fire does not rekindle.
The fire was under the command of Battalions Chief Eric Garcia, and several additional Battalions Chiefs were on scene assisting with command. Burbank’s Fire Chief Tom Lenahan on scene at one time during the blaze.
The carpet store owner Richard Raad, a former BUSD Board Member and lifelong resident was on scene with other members of his family early on and watched in amazement as fire destroyed his business. Raad reported that all 40 of his employees were off for the holiday and grateful none of them were injured. He promises to be back in operation as soon as possible.
Photos by Ross A. Benson
Great coverage, Ross…!
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