There were more fire engines roaring past our home on Lake Avenue in Lakewood today than I ever remember before.

On the way to pick up my son from school I passed one going back to its home in Lake Zurich.

That’s a real box alarm. Lots of fire departments asked for help.

You can see the aftermath at about six in the evening.

What the condos looked like after the flames had been put out.

The Crystal Lake Fire Department has released the following press release:

“The Crystal Lake Fire/Rescue Department at 12:30 hours responded to 1218 Walnut Glen, Crystal Lake, IL for a structure firer in a five unit townhouse building. The buildings residents were evacuated by Crystal Lake Police and Fire personnel.

The building to the left behind the water tower and the fire station is the one where the fire was. This is west of Huntley Road on the way to Turnberry.

“First arriving units on scene at 12:22 hours reported heavy smoke and fire from unit 1218 on the second floor and roof area.

“Crystal Lake Fire Rescue units began an exterior offensive attack.

“The fire extended into the next unit 1216 attic with smoke and water damaged sustained to the next unit 1214.

“Ongoing fire suppression activities continued until 14:17 hours when the fire was under control.

“Initial response was four engines, three ambulances, one ladder truck and one Shift Commander.

“Mutual Aid was activated to the third level.

“The fire was struck at 14:17 hours; additional equipment due on the Mutual Aid was

• eight engines
• three ladder trucks
• one squad
• five ambulances
• four Fire Chiefs
• Rehab Unit #5

“The investigation by the Crystal Lake Fire Department, Crystal Lake Police and State Fire Marshal’s Office revealed the origin of the fire was in the rear of unit 1218 undetermined cause, the fire is still under investigation.

“Total fire damage is $450,000 from fire/smoke/and structural damage.

“The quick action of the Crystal Lake Fire/Rescue Department and the Mutual Aid Companies worked under extreme wind and warm temperatures which prevented the total loss of the entire building.

“No injury to civilians or fire personnel during this incident.

“Three of the unites residents displaced were assisted by the Red Cross.

“The Crystal Lake Building Department, City Water Department, NICOR Gas Company and ComEd assisted at the scene.”