The Web allows us to post information as it becomes available letting readers follow the story in real time.

The Web also gives us an avenue for video storytelling. In cases like this Jan. 31 house fire, a video gives information that can't be conveyed with words and still images. When news breaks, I grab the paper's video equipment.

When done correctly, this approach keeps the readers involved from the first scanner call, keeps them visiting the Web site and gives them a complete picture of what happened - something they can't get anywhere else.

2:15 p.m. A call comes over the scanner, prompting a Web update.

2:30 p.m. I get to the scene, talk to witnesses and call in the following Web update.

UPDATE: City fire leaves 5 homeless
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A Binghamton family of five is homeless after fire destroyed their house at 1 Tremont Ave. Thursday afternoon.

Firefighters on the scene are still battling flames. They have not identified a cause of the fire at this time.

Witnesses at the scene said a mother and her four children lived at the address. Three people were home at the time, and all escaped without injury.

2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. I shoot footage for an online video. Photographer Becky Towns arrives to take still photos and assist with the video while I talk to victims, witnesses and fire officials.

4 p.m. Fellow reporter Eric Reinegal comes to the scene, allowing me to take the footage back to the office.

4 p.m. to 5 p.m. I edit the footage and post the following video online.