NEW WINDSOR – Vails Gate firefighters are being credited with saving a house from being destroyed after a fire broke out in the structure just after 4:00 p.m. on Thursday.
The Vails Gate Fire Department was dispatched to 5 Judd Circle at approximately 4:19 p.m. for a house on fire. The first arriving officer of the volunteer department arrived and reported smoke billowing from the single-story home.
Firefighters arriving on the engine quickly set up, hooked a hose to a nearby hydrant, entered the dwelling, and were met with heavy smoke conditions. With zero visibility, the firefighters moved forward and made their way to the bedroom that was engulfed in flames.
Department officials say that the firefighters were able to knock the bulk of the fire down within three minutes and then began overhauling to check for hidden flames. Chief JD Merritt said “Our firefighters showed the benefits of training by knocking this fire down within minutes, saving the house. The work they did was great.” Firefighters remained on the scene for approximately one hour.
The private residence sustained smoke, water, and fire damage that was primarily contained to the bedroom where the fire began.
The City of Newburgh Fire Department assisted at the scene.
No injuries were reported. The cause of the fire was not announced.
