2nd Alarm Apartment Fire in 23's Due

At 2347 units were dispatched to a structure fire across from 17025 Islip Loop. Engine 523 was responding and saw smoke and a glow from Route 1 near Wal-Mart. Engine 523 marked on the scene at 2350, and was still trying to determine the correct address as they arrived at the nearest hydrant to the structure. Two floors had a large amount of fire showing from the front as neighbors and Police Officers ran up stating that there were still people inside.

Battalion Chief 507 arrived just afterwards and called for a second alarm to the correct address at 17050 Capri Lane. Within moments E523's crew made a quick knock on the exterior fire and proceeded inside with a 300 foot line. The crew began advancing the line, forcing doors, and evacuating residents that were still inside. As E523 went to the fire floor and forced entry, E503B arrived on the scene and were directed to throw ladders to occupants seeking safety on rear balconies. As E523 fought the fire on the third and second floor E503B pulled a back-up line and fought fire on the outside balconies.

Truck 503 and other units began arriving on the scene within moments to begin roof operations and searches of the apartments. The Red Cross, Building Inspector, and four Fire Marshalls also arrived at the scene.

Although the fire was reported out within minutes of arrival, salvage and overhaul operations were conducted for over an hour. No injuries were reported at the scene and all occupants made it to safety. As units began to clear the scene Tower 512 and E503B were held with E523 to support the residents, exterior overhaul, and the investigation.

E523 was the last unit on the scene and went ready at 0518.