Hackensack NJ 4th alm equiv. , 265 Clinton Pl. 05-26-12

At just after 18:00 on May 26th 2012, Hackensack Fire Dept 1st platoon E-5, E-4, L-1, R-1 responded under the command of Deputy Chief Charlie Grieco for a reported possible explosion with a house fire and people trapped in the area of 271 Clinton Pl., while enroute a large column of smoke was visible. On arrival a working fire was confirmed at #265, a large 2.5 story frame dwelling with heavy fire in the rear of the building. A second alarm was transmitted bringing E-2 and E-1 as co's mounted and aggressive interior attack, a partial collapse in the rear occurred briefly trapping a Teaneck captain who was removed with non-life threatening injuries and the fire was rapidly spreading forcing evacuation tones to be sounded. Companies regrouped and set up exterior streams while a 3rd alarm was sounded bringing all Hackensack co's as well as additional mutual aid to the scene. Due to a well advanced fire on arrival and the balloon construction of the structure, the fire spread into the attic and heavy fire broke through the roof, firefighters attempted additional interior attacks several times but needed to be withdrawn due to fire conditions and the stability of the structure in question. After almost 2 hours, all visible fire was knocked down and the fire was declared probably will hold, with special calls the fire was equivalent to an un-official 4th alarm with 10 engine co's, 4 truck co's, 2 rescues and MSU operating, while mutual aid co's covered the city. 3 FF's including the Teaneck captain were injured and transported to Hackensack Medical Center, the cause of the fire is believed to be a defective propane BBQ.