Paterson NJ 3rd Alarm 359 McLean Blvd (Rt.20) 04-11-12

At just around 06:30 Paterson Fire Alarm received a call from PPD reporting a working building fire on McLean Blvd near 21st Ave behind the Lowe's store, on arrival of BC-1 he reported a 1 story 60 X 120 factory with heavy fire conditions and requested a 2nd alarm followed by the 3rd alarm a few minutes later and advised all companies that this would be a defensive attack. The building housed National Surtrex Corp, a supplier of medical and safety disposal apparel, L-3 set up in front on the building, L-2 (using a spare) set up in the rear and L-1 was positioned in the Lowe's parking lot, co's stretched multiple 2-1/2" hand lines as heavy fire was showing on the B & D sides of the building and thru the roof towards the rear of the building. After almost 90 minutes with the majority of the fire knocked down and companies appeared to be making good headway, heavy smoke began pushing from the front of the building followed by heavy fire. L-1 was relocated to the front of the building and placed into operation and a collapse zone was set up as most of the roof collapsed. The fire was eventually declared under control at approximately 12:25 but companies remained on the scene for another 5 hours for overhaul and investigation. Several FF's were injured and transported to St. Joe's Hospital, none seriously.