Two Hamilton Township Firefighters Hurt While Responding to House Fire
Two firefighters from Hamilton Township, New Jersey, sustained injuries on Sunday night while responding to a residential house fire. The house fire on Statton Drive began prior to 7 p.m. Local fire personnel responded promptly as the flames extended from an adjoining garage.
Hamilton Police Lieutenant Kristin Seitz stated that a neighbor contacted authorities after observing smoke and flames emanating from the residence. Firefighters arrived promptly and collaborated effectively to extinguish the fire and safeguard the residents. After departing from the home unaccompanied, two parents, three children, and two pets successfully avoided injury.
Two Hamilton Township firemen were injured fighting the fire. One individual was admitted to the hospital due to flame inhalation, while the other sustained facial burns. Both individuals were stabilized following treatment at a nearby medical facility. Fast-acting firefighters extinguished the fire before it spread to adjacent residences and caused more damage.
Later, officials stated the fire started when the homeowner put living room fireplace ashes in a cardboard box. An ember-filled box was placed in the garage for regular garbage pickup. The householder unintentionally ignited the fire due to a failure to recognize that the embers remained smoldering. Fireplace debris and other combustible materials must be managed with caution.
After an extensive evaluation, the township fire marshal declared the home safe for the family to return. The incident underscored the significance of fire safety measures and emergency response protocols in minimizing injuries and property damage, according to officials.
Fireplaces, barbecues, and other fire-starters should be used safely, according to the Hamilton Township Fire Department. Prior to disposing of embers, ensure they are completely extinguished and maintain a safe distance between flammable objects and structures.
Thankfully, only minor injuries were sustained, but this event highlights the dangers of improperly disposing of fire-related debris and firefighter safety.
Sources:
Hamilton Township Police Department
Hamilton Township Fire Department
