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Two major fires ignited in New Jersey overnight into Saturday, leaving buildings and vehicles damaged, yet fortunately sparing any injuries.
One of the fires, a five-alarm blaze, tore through an abandoned chemical plant in Paterson shortly before 11:30 p.m. on Friday. The inferno sent flames and smoke towering into the air, causing damage to nearby vehicles, according to ABC7.
When emergency crews arrived, they found the abandoned structure on Piercey Street fully engulfed in flames. The situation was compounded by challenges with the water supply.
Initially, firefighters had access to only a single hydrant with low water pressure, necessitating the coordination of fire engines to source water from more distant hydrants.
At one point, firefighting efforts had to be paused and repositioned when a section of the building collapsed, scattering debris onto nearby cars.
As a safety measure, the electricity on the street was shut off.
Paterson Deputy Fire Chief Michael Cleenput said the building has been abandoned for over 20 years and were surprised to find a live gas line at the building.
Part of the fire was exacerbated by the gas line until crews were able to locate and shut off the correct valve.
“Right away, we went into defensive mode, which means none of our personnel go inside to operate,” Cleenput said.
“It was an abandoned chemical factory, so we knew to stay out and maintain a safe distance,” he said.
Fire fighters continued attending to the blaze Saturday morning and officials said the building will have to be demolished due to extensive damage and safety concerns.
Several hours later, a three-alarm fire destroyed several Seaside Heights houses at around 3:30 a.m. Saturday, NJ.com reported.
Officials said the blaze began at a home on Sheridan Avenue, engulfing several nearby houses and destroying three cars.
Residents were evacuated and no injuries were reported.
Firefighters were on scene for three hours fighting out the blaze.
Officials are currently investigating the circumstances that lead to both fires.
