On February 28, just before 5:00 p.m., firefighters from the Newfield Fire Company responded to a reported barn fire.

The first arriving chief reported that the barn was completely involved, with no more exposures looming. The department's seven apparatus responded, totaling 21 firefighters. Engine 1302 took the attack position and deployed three 1¾-inch handlines and one 2½-inch line to initiate suppression operations.

The West Danby Fire and Rescue and the Enfield Volunteer Fire Company supplied mutual help, allowing workers to keep a continuous water flow for about three hours while the fire was brought under control. Additional support and standby coverage were provided by the Odessa Fire Department, the Tompkins County Department of Emergency Response, Bangs Ambulance, and the Tompkins County Sheriff's Office.