Smithtown volunteers were alerted at 0505 hours for a reported structure fire at 31 Sandalwood Drive in Smithtown. First on scene was 1st Assistant Chief Timothy Duckham who confirmed a working fire. Chief Diecidue transmitted a second alarm, which brings in mutual aid from neighboring fire departments. Upon arrival crews found an attached garage fire extending into the first floor and second floor of the structure. Engine 4-2-4 arrived 1st due and stretched an 1-3/4” handline to begin attacking the fire in the front of the structure, while 2nd due Engine 4-2-5 stretched the second 1-3/4” line and began protecting the exposures. The chauffeurs from both Engines 4 and 5 secured a water source and ensured adequate water was available. Once the exterior fire was darkened down, crews under the direction of 3rd Assistant Chief Andrew Kelly began an interior attack to extinguish the fire which had extended to the 2nd floor and attic. Ladder 4-2-7 arrived on scene and provided searches of the structure to confirm all residents evacuated, while the crew from Nesconset Ladder 4-4-7 opened up to access the fire. The crew from Hauppauge Engine 3-8-14 stretched a third 1-3/4” line upon their arrival for protection. Ambulances 4-2-61, 4-2-62 & 4-2-65 along with First Responder 4-2-81 provided EMS coverage in case of any injuries. Mutual Aid was provided by the Nesconset Fire Department, Hauppauge Fire Department, St James Fire Department and Commack Fire Department. While Nissequogue FD, Kings Park FD & Commack Ambulance stood by in our quarters in case of any additional alarms.
There were no reported injuries to civilians or firefighters and units operated until 0748 hours under the command of Chief of Department Patrick Diecidue. The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Smithtown Fire Marshal’s office and Suffolk County Police.
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Photos courtesy of Joe Sperber