NY Department Uses Drone to Put Out Stubborn Fire

March 15, 2023

The City of Oswego Fire Department used a drone to spray water on a commercial building fire after firefighters were forced to exit the building.

By Rylee Kirk

Source syracuse.com (TNS)

The Oswego Fire Department also used the thermal imaging drone technology to strategically direct water from its aerial master streams to the seat of the fire.

Oswego, N.Y. — A drone was used to spray water on a downtown Oswego building that was on fire for almost two hours Wednesday, firefighters said.

At 3:11 a.m. firefighters arrived at 39 West Bridge St. to find a fire at the back of the second-story apartment building, according to a news release from the City of Oswego Fire Department. The building has a bar called Raven in it, according to a Facebook post from Mayor Billy Barlow.

One person was home at the time of the fire but managed to get out, firefighters said. People in neighboring buildings were evacuated by the fire department.

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The fire was heavy in the attic and cockloft, or area between the ceiling and roof, firefighters said. The firefighters were forced to exit the building and fight the fire from the outside, they said.

For 90 minutes firefighters fought the fire with a large quantity of water, firefighters said. A drone was used to spray the building with water from above, firefighters said. At 5 a.m. the fire was finally controlled, firefighters said.

The building had heavy damage to the second floor and roof. Nearby buildings had water damage, firefighters said.

Staff writer Rylee Kirk covers breaking news, crime and public safety. Have a tip, story idea, photo, question or comment? Reach her at 315-396-5961, on Twitter @kirk_rylee, or [email protected].