Keith Seifert

The home is owned by Kenneth MacAulay , according to Silverdale Fire Chief Keith Seifert.
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Because of the heat , a larger-than-usual contingent of seven fire companies and 50-60 firefighters responded to the fire , which destroyed the basement and first floor of the two-story farmhouse and caused severe smoke damage to the top floor , Seifert said.

If this had occurred last week in 80-degree weather , we would have had left units.But if it was the winter and 9 below , there would have been the same number of crews , he said.

The weather plays a big deal in firefighting..

The intense conditions of even a small fire can lead to severe heat injuries and prove fatal if not handled properly.

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You drill [ staying hydrated ] into their heads , and the EMS keeps their eyes on them , Seifert said.You do what you can.Each individual knows what their limits are.The heat definitely gives you much more limitations..

Some departments bring along misting fans to blow cool water on the firefighters , he said , and emergency workers monitor firefighters for heat stroke and other heat-related health problems.

The woman, whose identity authorities were withholding Tuesday, was taken to Grand View Hospital by Perkasie Community Ambulance, said Keith Seifert, deputy chief of the Silverdale Volunteer Fire Company.

"She's being kept overnight for observation," Seifert said Tuesday evening.

Firefighters rescued three cats from the burning structure and a fourth cat turned up later, he said.

"All the pets have been accounted for," Seifert said.

Keith SeifertMember since

Chief Keith Seifert