Charlotte fire crews rolled out early Saturday after a structure fire was reported in the 4900 block of Jean Grimes Drive in the Highland Creek area of northeast Charlotte. In its first alert, the department said Engine 31 was on scene and that crews reported visible smoke, but it did not immediately include information about injuries, the extent of damage or what caused the blaze.
Fire department alert
According to a post by Charlotte Fire Dept, the department issued an early morning structure fire alert for the 4900 block of Jean Grimes Drive and noted that Engine 31 was on scene with "command smoke showing." The post also reminded readers that the department's social media feed is not monitored around the clock and that anyone facing an emergency should call 911.
Where this is
Jean Grimes Drive runs through the Highland Creek neighborhood, a largely residential stretch of northeast Charlotte that includes both apartments and single family homes. Walk Score places Jean Grimes Drive in Highland Creek, giving a quick bit of context on the area around the 4900 block.
What "command smoke showing" signals
On the fireground, shorthand phrases in a command arrival report, including descriptions such as "smoke showing," tell incoming companies what the first in unit observed when establishing command. That kind of radio size up helps additional crews anticipate what resources and assignments might be needed, according to Fire Engineering.
The department's initial message did not include details on containment efforts or possible injuries. Residents near Jean Grimes Drive should expect emergency activity in the area and follow official channels for updates. Reporters will monitor Charlotte Fire Dept posts and other public safety channels and update with new information as it is released.
