Early this morning units were alerted for a possible house fire in the 3-28 box. At 05:23, shortly after heavy thunderstorms passed through the area, the tones sounded for a house that was on fire after being struck by lightning on Homeland Way in Ellicott City. The caller advised that the roof was on fire and the home was being evacuated.
Chief 3 arrived to confirm that there was fire through the roof, established command, and requested the task force be alerted. Engine 31 arrived shortly after and began offensive operations along with Engine 82, Engine 22, and Tower 2 under Battalion Chief 2. Crews worked to evacuate neighboring residences and exited the structure to knock the fire using handlines and Tower 2's aerial and the fire was declared out at 07:00. One firefighter was transported priority 3 to Howard County General Hospital with minor injuries and the American Red Cross responded to assist the residents of the home. Units cleared at 07:44.