Quick work and concerted efforts with volunteers from both Highlands and Middletown fire companies prevented a far more serious household fire at 9 Many Mind Avenue last Saturday,
“This was an outstanding job by our volunteer firefighters and our mutual aid partners,” said Fire Chief Christopher Vasto, who was also first on the scene and established command. “This fire was already into the structure and beginning to move into the eaves and attic space. That is the type of fire that can quickly get ahead of you. The fact that crews were able to stop it within minutes speaks to their training, discipline, and commitment to this community.”
The fire had already extended on one side of the residence into the structure and was nearing the eaves and attic space when Atlantic Highlands Fire Department Engine 85-77 arrived, the first engine on scene. Firefighters quickly stretched hose lines and initiated fire attack. Through fast response, coordinated operations, and aggressive work by firefighters on scene, the fire was brought under control within minutes and stopped before it could spread further throughout the residence.
Twenty-one firefighters operated at the incident, with the local department assisted by Highlands Fire Department, Community Fire Company, Brevent Park Fire Company of the Middletown Township Fire Department, Atlantic Highlands First Aid, the Atlantic Highlands Police Department, utility representatives, and the Monmouth County Fire Marshal’s Office.
All occupants were able to exit the home, and no civilian or firefighter injuries were reported, Vasto reported.. The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Monmouth County Fire Marshal’s Office.
Vasto added, “Atlantic Highlands is protected by volunteers who leave their families, jobs, and daily responsibilities at a moment’s notice to respond when our residents need help. Their performance at this fire deserves to be recognized. They operated professionally, aggressively, and as a team, and that made a real difference for this homeowner and this community.”
The quick and efficient efforts by the volunteer firefighters and the leadership of the chief also gained the support and gratitude of the Mayor and Council at Tuesday’s meeting, with all commending the efforts of both the professionals and the volunteers.
Councilman Jose Pujols, who was not able to be present at the council meeting, reiterated his own praise and gratitude of the local firefighters for all their work, and specifically at this latest effort in protecting the borough.
“This was another great job by our guys here in Atlantic Highlands FD….a professional and strong job performed by all on the scene”, Pujols said.” The councilman, who is also a professional firefighter in northern New Jersey, was present at the fire scene, saying “ I arrived as the Chief arrived and heard the reports and saw the fire in the rear. Once the first arriving AH engine got on the scene they immediately stretched a line to the rear and began extinguishing the fire. The second AH engine arrived shortly after and assisted with lines and a water supply. TEXTBOOK!!,” he said with enthusiasm, adding thanks and gratitude for the mutual aid companies who quickly arrived on the scene and immediately began their efforts in support “This was simply a great job performed by all. They were able to maintain fire damage and most importantly, contained it to the exterior. “
Vasto took the opportunity in the wake of all the volunteer efforts to issue another reminder to all residents to stay alert to seasonal fire hazards. Smoking materials should never be discarded in mulch beds, planters, flowerpots, or near structures. Fire pits should be kept a safe distance from homes, fences, decks, sheds, and trees, and should never be left unattended. Generators must always be operated outdoors and away from windows, doors, garages, and vents to prevent carbon monoxide from entering the home. He also reminded residents of the pride volunteers take in being on the local department, but noted that they “respond day and night to protect the residents, visitors, homes, and businesses of Atlantic Highlands.”
vasto
