Passaic NJ 4th alarm, 302 Howard Ave. 07-20-19

At around 17:30 on a very hot and humid July 20th 2019, Passaic NJ Fire Dept responded to 302 Howard Ave. for a reported house fire. On arrival co's found a large 2.5 story frame dwelling with heavy fire in the 2nd floor rear extending into the attic. Hand lines were stretched into the building in an attempt to quickly knock down the fire. With conditions deteriorating Battalion Chief Kevin Colavitti requested the 2nd alarm. Access to the roof was made difficult due to uneven terrain on the C and D sides as well as tree in the front, before the roof could be opened heavy fire broke through it. With the temperature at around 99 and the real feel temp of 110 a 3rd alarm was requested to the scene along with a rehab unit from Moonachie. All members were withdrawn from the building as heavy fire was visible on the 2nd floor rear and through the roof and no headway being made. Co's attempted several times to go to an offensive attack but hidden fire continued to break out all over the attic forcing command to switch back to an exterior attack several times. A 4th alarm was requested for relief purposes and the fire was finally placed PWH at around 20:15 with companies continuing to hit hot spots. Despite the grueling temperature which took a toll on the members, no injuries were reported and it is also reported that the homeowners were away at the time of the fire.