PATERSON, NJ - Aluminum siding and electricity don’t mix, as that was once again proven to firefighters on February 28th.

As temperatures dropped and very gusty winds passed through Northern New Jersey on February 28th, firefighters were sent to 588 River Street for a pole on fire. Shortly after arrival, primary wires dropped on to the nearby structure and came into contact with the aluminum siding. An eruption of sparks emitted from all floors of the three-and-a-half-story building, prompting the Battalion to fill out the box and request PSE&G on a rush.

A second-alarm was quickly called as smoke was soon emitting from the upper floors. PSE&G was able to respond quickly and cut the power. Companies moved in and worked to quell the flames. The strong wind kept fanning the flames, and as soon as flames were knocked down in one spot, they soon reappeared in another.

It took almost two hours to be able to place the fire under control. No injuries were reported, but a second two-alarm fire later that night at 69 Mercer Street took the life of one resident.