The Danville Fire Department was dispatched to a fire on the City's River Walk Trail on March 13th at 11:49 am. Apparatus arrived 3 minutes later and found heavy smoke showing from the River Walk Trestle over the Dan River. Personnel investigated from both sides of the trestle. A moderate amount of fire was easily located approximately 300' off the north side of the trestle. The DFD initially deployed hand water extinguishers to control the fire until the hose lines could be deployed. 350' of fire hose was stretched from the "S" curves on River Street. The fire was under control in approximately 20 minutes. The fire had extended under the decking boards onto the old railroad ties below it. A large area of wood had to be pulled up and/or cut out from the bridge to extinguish hot spots and confirm the fire was out. This included a section of handrail.
Representatives from Parks & Recreation responded to the scene. They closed the trail over the river. The trail will remain closed until repairs are made on the trestle. The City will announce once the repairs are complete and the trestle is reopened.
The DFD responded with three engines, one ladder, and three support vehicles. Units remained on scene until 2:10 pm. 18 personnel responded to the scene. During the operation, River Street was closed to use the hydrant across the street. The Danville Police Department controlled the road during this time. The DFD also received assistance from the Danville Life Saving Crew.
The Fire Marshal's Office advised the fire cause was improperly disposing of smoking materials. We contacted the Virginia Department of Emergency Management in reference to using Class "A" foam on the fire. They confirmed there was no issue with that type of foam and the small amount used polluting the river.
Brian K. Alderson
Battalion Chief
