HADDONFIELD, NJ - On April 23rd at 3:10 P.M., Task Force 14 (Haddon Fire Company Engine and Ladder Companies, Cherry Hill Ladder 24, Westmont Squrt 15, Haddon Heights Engine 2, Lawnside Squad 272), was dispatched to 408 Spruce Street for the report of a dwelling fire. The fire was reported by a US Postal Service letter carrier in the area.

While responding, Haddonfield Fire Chief 14, Pat Gorman, reported a large column in the air and requested the All Hands signal, which brought in Magnolia Squad 29 and Cherry Hill EMS. Engine 14, the first due unit, arrived within four minutes to a two-story, single-frame dwelling heavily involved in fire. Engine 14 stretched a two-and-a-half-inch attack hand line to knock down the main body of fire and initiate interior attack.

Upon his arrival, Chief Gorman ordered the second-alarm transmitted (Collingswood Squad 16, Oaklyn Ladder 18, and Cherry Hill Rehab 13) after a report that an occupant might be trapped. CHFD Ladder 24 and Squad 13 were assigned rescue operations. It was soon determined that all occupants were accounted for.

While performing interior fire attack, conditions deteriorated, fire further extended through the second-floor, and a Haddonfield firefighter partially fell through a burnt out floor, so Haddonfield Assistant Chief Bob Henry, Operations Chief, ordered all members to withdraw from the fire building and a PAR was conducted. After the fire darkened, units transitioned back to an offensive operation and overhaul and final extinguishment were completed.

The fire was declared under control at 3:50 P.M. The fire is being investigated by the local and county fire marshal.