On Sunday February 23^rd, a raging fire tore through three multi-family homes in Paterson leaving about 45 residents homeless, but causing no serious injuries.

Just before 5:00 PM, a full response was sent to 491 Totowa Ave. A “smoke in the area” transmission was quickly updated to “transmit the second and third alarms” as the Battalion arrived. Flames were showing from the rear of three two and three story frame structures with residents still exiting and possibly some trapped. Crews made a push inside to make a search. Everyone was confirmed out and accounted for. A heavy ember problem was starting small fires across the street and threatening additional exposures.

Multiple lines were stretched and two tower ladders were set up. Conditions continued to deteriorate and by 5:15 all members were withdrawn and operations went defensive. The two tower ladders went into operation on the “A” side along with multiple lines in both the front and the rear yards. A fourth alarm was sounded to assist with water supply at 5:30. 

Conditions stabilized as the flames were held to the three structures. A fifth alarm for manpower was called as crews were rotated. Fire crews remained at the scene throughout the night as many hot spots continued to burn. The Red Cross was on the scene to assist those displaced. One firefighter was transported to Saint Joe’s for a burn injury. No serious injuries were reported. The cause is under investigation.