READING, Pa. – Fire officials in Reading say hoarding conditions made work difficult for crews trying to extinguish a weekend house fire.
The two-alarm fire broke out just after 8 a.m. Sunday at a home in the 1700 block of Thorn Street.
Officials says a second alarm was struck for additional manpower and because hoarding conditions made it difficult for firefighters to maneuver inside the home.
Crews managed to contain the fire to the basement, where it is believed to have originated, in under an hour.
Two people were hospitalized with minor injuries.
Fire officials are reminding the public that hoarding conditions are not only bad for residents – they also make it difficult and dangerous for firefighters trying to do their jobs.
The cause of the fire is undetermined at this time and remains under investigation.
Damage to the home is estimated at $50,000.