At approximately 7:45 a.m. on Monday, July 26, the Wantagh Fire Department was alerted for a house fire at 3077 N. Jerusalem Rd. in Levittown. 3rd Assistant Chief Bill Stevens was first to respond and dispatcher Lauren Fortuna reported that she had received several calls reporting a heavy volume of fire coming from the garage.
(Photo courtesy of ex-Chief William K. Field IV/Bill Breslin)
Stevens arrived a few moments later and transmitted a “Signal 10,” (working fire). His initial reports included that a detached garage was fully involved and the house was starting to catch fire as flames intensified. In addition, the house immediately to the right was in danger of becoming involved. 2nd Assistant Chief Lenny Mathewson then arrived and assumed command.
The fire, which presented some very challenging and hazardous conditions for firefighters due to several propane tanks and a 275-gallon oil tank in the garage, was declared under control in approximately 40 minutes. Units remained on scene for approximately 1 hour, 45 minutes conducting overhaul operations and securing all equipment and there were no injuries reported.
Mutual Aid assistance was provided at the scene by the Levittown, Bethpage, North Bellmore Fire Departments (F.A.S.T./ Truck Companies) and the Seaford FD for an additional Engine Company. East Meadow, Bellmore and Massapequa Fire Departments were on standby at Wantagh Station #2 with an Engine, Ladder and Rescue respectively.
An investigation is underway by personnel from the Nassau County Police Arson/Bomb Squad and Nassau County Fire Marshal’s Office, although the cause does not appear suspicious.
—Submitted by the Wantagh Fire Department Visit
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