EMFD puts the brakes on Greenvale Lane house fire

East Meadow volunteers from Engines, 3, 4, Ladders 1, and 2, were alerted for a report of "Smoke in the oil burner room" at a home on Greenvale Lane in Levittown on Nov. 8 at 11:48 p.m.

Two minutes into the alarm, Chief of Department Eric Becker transmitted his response. He was quickly followed by Assistant Chief James Walsh and Safety Officer 6155.

On the arrival of Chief Becker, all East Meadow units were either on the road, or in the process of leaving the firehouses.

A quick size up by Chief Becker revealed a smoke condition of unknown origin building in the rear rooms of this two-story Levitt home with no visible fire, prompting the order for a Signal 98 (Going to work: "First In" pumper connects to a hydrant and stretches (2) attack lines, Rescue 5 added to the alert for EMS).

Seconds later, First Due Engine 614 connected to a nearby fire hydrant connected and laid their 5" supply line down the street to the fire, as sirens of Engines 3, Ladders 1 and 2, drew closer.

As Engine Company firefighters moved the hose lines in, Ladder Company firefighters poked and probed walls and ceilings exposing the hidden fire running freely in the walls. Additional crews moved in as smoke filled to home.

With the fire found extending into the second floor, firefighters from both ladder companies worked feverishly to expose all areas of the left rear walls of the home to ensure all fire could be extinguished.
Rescue 5 soon arrived with Ambulances 615 and 6115, supported by Ambulance 6144, to established a treatment area for any injuries. There were none.

In all, 62 East Meadow volunteers responded to the fire. The quick response of the initial assignment to locate the hidden fire and get water on it negated any need for additional EMFD companies or mutual aid.

The cause of the fire was turned over to the Nassau County Fire Marshal's office for determination.

Water damage to the home was extensive in the areas of fire spread due to the need to flush hidden wall areas, however the balance of the home was free of fire and water damage.

One cat was found by firefighters and was secured in a safe room.

John J. O'Brien is an active Ex Chief of the East Meadow Fire Department. He is the District Supervisor of the Jericho Fire District and has over 40 years of Dispatch and Supervisory experience.