Alert:    May 02, 2009, 13:06:

Station 33 responded to a Level 1 Alert at 1147 Barley Sheaf Road with a report of smell of smoke in the basement.

Repsonse:

Chief 33 and Engine 33-61 responded to the location.  Initial reports from the homeowner suggested that they thought the “Burning Plastic” smell was from the Washer/Dryer.  The Smoke detector had gone of a half hour before the call.

Situation Found:

Further investigation revealed that the burning smell was emanating from the furnace.  The Furnace was a GAS Hot Water (Steam) type, which requires a minimum amount of water to operate.  The water had dissipated, and the furnace went HOT melting a Gauge that was mounted on the furnace creating a burning plastic smell.  Extensive heat marks were also seen on the Steam Pipes coverings.

Action taken:

The TIC was used to ensure absence of fire.  The heat signature was high, but no fire was seen.  The Gas supplying the Furnace was turned off at the furnace not to affect any other utilities.  The Furnace “Emergency Off” switch was eventually found in the Kitchen and turned off.  There was no “Emergency Off” switch located by the furnace.  The Circuit breaker for the furnace was also turned off, but had to be turned back on as it was on the same circuit as the Kitchen Lighting.