ELMWOOD PARK, NJ - Elmwood Park firefighters fought high winds and heavy fire conditions at 34 Palsa Avenue in the early morning hours of March 28th.

Around 4:30 A.M., companies were dispatched on a structure fire with occupants reportedly trapped. On arrival of first due chiefs, heavy fire was already showing on the first floor and extending to the second floor of the home. The homeowner and a roommate tried to douse the flames after the fire ignited in a first floor computer room, but were unsuccessful.

High winds fanned the flames that threatened exposures, but they were kept in check. A propane tank exploded during the fire attack, knocking down several firefighters. All were checked out at a St. Joseph's Hospital before being released without injury.

Mutual aid from Fair Lawn and Saddle Brook assisted on the scene, and companies from Clifton and Rochelle Park covered at the Blvd. firehouse. The Fire Dept. Ladies Auxiliary provided rehab on the scene. No other injuries were reported. The fire, which appears to be accidental in nature, was declared under control about 45 minutes later.