5-Alarm Fire in Queens: FDNY Responds, Injuries Reported

Ridgewood Fire Response

• 🚒 Over 200 firefighters were initially called to a massive fire that broke out in Ridgewood, Queens.
• 💥 The fire escalated to a five-alarm blaze, requiring the response of approximately 270 firefighters, EMS workers, and paramedics.
• ⚠️ Fire officials reported heavy fire on the first floor that quickly extended to adjacent buildings through open interior shafts, eventually affecting all floors.
• 🏗️ The roof of one building collapsed during the intense firefighting efforts.

Injuries and Evacuations

• 🤕 A total of six people were injured, including five firefighters.
• 🏥 One firefighter was hospitalized after an air conditioner fell through a window and struck him; he is expected to recover.
• 🧑‍🦱 A resident suffered burns to their face and hand and is in serious but expected-to-survive condition.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Four buildings were evacuated, displacing numerous families who fled with only the clothes on their backs.

Community Impact and Support

• 💔 Residents are anxiously waiting to assess the damage to their apartments and homes and retrieve belongings.
• 🤝 The Red Cross is assisting dozens of families at a nearby school turned response center.
• 🏠 The fire, which occurred around 3:30 AM on a cold Monday, has left many families facing the prospect of starting over.

Fire Safety and Investigation

• 🔍 The cause of the fire remains under investigation by FDNY fire marshals.
• 📢 City officials are urging New Yorkers to take precautions during fire season, highlighting that knowing and being prepared are crucial.
• 💻 Resources like fdnymart.org are available for fire safety tips and smoke detector installation sign-ups.
• 🗣️ The response was described as a "whole government approach" by city officials, emphasizing the collaboration between various agencies.