Eric Haak photo Sheet Metal Fabrication,Sheet Metal Bracket Stamping,Steel Stamping Suport Bracket,Custom Heavy Cnc Parts Foshan City Yuwei Aluminum Products Co.,Ltd. , https://www.wakfenn.com
**From Eric Haak's Field Report:**
Saturday morning, around 3:15 AM (January 23rd), fire units from Chicago's 14th Battalion responded to reports of a fire at 2213 West Cermak. Engine Company 23 arrived just a minute later and confirmed an active fire on the rear porches of a three-story, ordinary, occupied apartment building measuring approximately 30 by 70 feet. Fire crews initially focused on containing the flames, but within about 20 minutes, the fire had spread to the basement, first floor, and second floor. This rapid extension necessitated a shift to a defensive strategy around 3:35 AM. Meanwhile, fire also spread to the adjoining "D" side exposure building, which was quickly brought under control.
Engine 109 deployed its deck gun in sector "C," while Squad 1's Snorkel was positioned for support. Over the next few hours, firefighters used multiple handlines and master streams from the Snorkel and Tower Ladder 5 to extinguish the blaze. The temperature remained around 10 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the operation, adding another layer of challenge for the crews. After more than four hours of intense work, the fire was finally brought under control.
Below are some images captured by Eric Haak during the incident:
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As I walked through the scene, the acrid smell of smoke lingered in the air, and the glow of the embers still smoldering beneath the charred remains of the building provided a haunting backdrop to the firefighters' efforts. It was a cold and exhausting night for everyone involved, but the teamwork and determination were evident. Each firefighter moved with purpose, knowing how critical it was to stop the fire before it caused further damage or threatened lives.
The fire's progression was relentless, forcing a strategic pivot early in the operation. Despite the challenges posed by the weather and the building's structure, the firefighters adapted quickly and worked tirelessly to protect adjacent properties. The camaraderie among the crew was inspiring, and even in the darkest moments, there was a shared sense of resolve.
This incident is a stark reminder of the dangers faced by firefighters every day. Their dedication to protecting life and property is unmatched, and stories like this underscore why they are true heroes.
[Continue viewing additional photos in the gallery below.]
June 21, 2025