02/04/2007: Queens 6 Alarm Apartment Building Fire

FAR ROCKAWAY, NY - Around midnight on February 4, 2007 the Fire Department of New York was notified for a fire in a multi-occupant dwelling at 1056 Neilson Street. Within an hour and a half the fire rose to a 6th alarm status. Fire was reported on floors 2-6, including the cockloft.

Along with the primary fire a secondary fire was being faught at 931 Dinsmore Avenue. Falling ambers from the primary fire set a small home on fire. Crews worked quickly to save the home.

At least 4 tower ladders were in operation, with one even being situated in a small space on the front lawn of a local homeowner. Crews operating the saw removed a security fence surrounding the property in order to back the tower ladder in.

After battling the fire for hours, crews had begun to finally bring the fire under control around 3am. Although traces of fire could clearly be seen in many rooms, it was at more manageable size.

Companies from all around Queens and Brooklyn worked together to take this fire down as quickly as possible.

Among the many firefighters who were treated for smoke inhalation only a dozen or so residents were treated for minor injuries. Despite leaving many homeless the outcome was a good one as there were no serious injuries.