On Friday, March 24 at 1:37 pm, the Middletown Township Fire Department (MTFD) was dispatched to an attached garage fire at 97 Cherry Tree Farm Rd. in the Port Monmouth section of Middletown.
The first arriving MTPD patrolman confirmed the garage fire. The first arriving MTFD Unit and Chief John Waltz confirmed a working garage fire of the two-story wood frame structure. Chief Waltz immediately requested additional support and directed the first arriving engine to drop a supply line from the nearest hydrant. Chief Waltz directed one of the backup units for the Rapid Intervention Team, search and rescue employing thermal imaging cameras to ensure no occupants were inside the structure and that all fire was found and extinguished also ventilation and overhaul assignments were made.
Two family cats were safely secured in a room in the house during firefighter operations. The cats avoided firefighter’s efforts to secure them safely outside the house. There was minimal fire damage to the inside of the house to which the garage was attached, and heavy smoke damage was observed throughout the house.
The building utilities were secured by New Jersey Natural Gas and Jersey Central.
The fire was placed under control by MTFD Chief John Waltz at 1:50 pm. All units were cleared from the scene at 3:10 pm.
Approximately 48 firefighters from five companies of the Middletown Township Fire Department responded to the call from Belford Engine, Community, East Keansburg, Port Monmouth and Belford Independent Fire companies. Additionally, the MTFD Air Unit, Fire Police and the Safety Unit also responded.
Middletown’s Emergency Medical Services provided medical. No firefighter injuries were reported.
All units operated safely under the supervision of Middletown Township Fire Department MTFD Chief John Waltz.
The fire is being investigated by the Middletown Township Fire Marshal’s office under the direction of Fire Marshal Edward Skelly.
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