Paterson NJ 2nd alarm+, 979 Madison Ave. 12-28-14

At around 04:25 hours on December 28th, 2014, Paterson Fire Dept responded to 979 Madison Ave. for the building fire. On arrival, E-1 reported heavy smoke showing from the roof of a large unoccupied 3 story frame dwelling, companies found heavy fire in the basement extending up the rear walls, multiple hand lines were stretched into all floors in an attempt to contain the fast moving fire. Deputy 4 requested a 2nd alarm as companies reported fire on all floors and all members were pulled from the building with heavy fire in the attic threatening the exposures. A quick exterior attack with L-1 and several hand lines and the fire was knocked down enough to allow companies to go back inside. An additional ladder was requested to the scene for manpower to assist with overhaul as pockets of fire persisted in the attic area. With all searches completed and negative the fire was declared out just before 0800.