At 650 AM on July 5th, with a strong start to the July month as the community events, training and fire calls, River Edge Fire Department responded to a reported oven and kitchen fire at 84 Rutgers Place.

Upon arrival 1-0 reported a heavy column of black smoke coming from the rear of the apartment complex and immediately transmitted the working fire assignment, bringing in mutual aid from New Milford, Oradell the Hackensack Truck "FAST" Team and a Paramus Engine.

Initial attack lines stretched off Engine 2, Squad 4 supplied Engine 2 with a water supply and a 3rd line by Engine 3 to protect the interior stairwell. Tower 21 and crews from Engine 3 completed primary and secondary searches - both were negative.

Tower 31 and Engine 34 checked the attached building apartments for residents and possible extension.  

Crews made a fast, aggressive interior attack and quickly and effectively knocked down the fire preventing the fire from spreading and containing to the kitchen area. Due to time of day, holiday weekend and that this was a fully occupied Garden Apartment complex with most residents still in bed it was upgraded to a 2nd Alarm. Rehab was put in place, 1 firefighter and 1 occupant was evaluated by Holy Name BLS.

Chief Schlossberg praises the strong positive work from all on scene and was grateful for the seasoned firefighters and well trained members on the initial response for much success. River Edge and Tri-Boro being well protected by Teaneck, Bergenfield and Dumont Fire Departments, as all in town at River Edge firehouse during this time and much appreciated.