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LAYTON — An overnight fire in Layton took over 50 minutes get under control and destroyed a new house under construction.
At about 2 a.m. Saturday morning, firefighters were called to structure under construction at 432 N. 3475 West, said Doug Bitton from the Layton City Fire Department
Upon arrival, crews could see flames coming through the roof, so the officers set up an exterior attack with aerial streams that can deliver up to 350 gallons of water per minute, according to Bitton.
Firefighters aggressively fought the fire, but the extreme cold conditions created challenges.
"With the temperature at 18 degrees, the water on the fire ground went to ice rapidly, causing slip hazards for firefighters," Bitton said.
A snowplow was ordered to supply sand and salt to the fire ground and provide steadier footing for firefighters.
However, the fire took 50 minutes to get the fire under control.
"The home appears to be a total loss if not substantial damage costs of over $200,000," Bitton said.
Syracuse and Sunset Fire Departments assisted with the fire, which made a total of 26 fire personnel who worked on extinguishing the blaze.
No injuries were reported as a result of the fire.
Investigators are still trying to determine the cause of the fire and are looking closely at the portable heaters that are used during construction.
"Portable heaters in cold conditions can be a serious fire risk," Bitton said. "All the public needs to be very cautious using portable heaters. Be sure they are plugged directly into wall outlets, not extension cords, and keep a 3-foot clearance of all combustible material such as drapes, bedding and paper products away."
