New Milford NJ 3rd alarm, 289 Henley Ave. 07-23-20

As New Milford NJ police officers were investigating a possible smoke condition on the evening of July 23rd 2020, they discovered smoke issuing from the house at 289 Henley Ave. and requested the fire department. Arriving co's encountered a heavy smoke condition, transmitted a working fire and requested a 2nd alarm. As crews advanced lines into the building, a 2.5 story frame, they discovered hoarding conditions which hampered the fire attack and searches. As conditions on the exterior appeared to be deteriorating crews reported heavy fire extending from the basement in the rear into the 1st floor. Command at this time ordered all companies briefly out of the building. Crews were able to make a push back into the basement as well as the upper floors and quickly knocked down all visible fire. A 3rd alarm was requested for relief purposes due to the high temperatures and humidity. The fire was placed under control in approximately 90 minutes with no injuries reported.