Multiple crews battle fire in Rotterdam
Posted at: 09/11/2012 11:16 PM
| Updated at: 09/12/2012 12:22 AM
By: Jessica Layton
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ROTTERDAM - There were thick plumes smoke and frightening fierce flames shooting out of the back of the home on Ferguson Street in Rotterdam.
"My wife actually said that could be our house on fire," said Jamie Case, who could see the flames from a local shopping plaza.
Case was relieved it wasn't his home. But he really felt for the homeowners as he captured video of the fire on his smart phone.
Even as fumes filled the air, neighbors piled into the streets. Jeffrey Cascine brings his car to get fixed here.
"They did a lot of work in the garage, like mechanic work, cars were always in and out," Cascine said.
"Apparently the homeowner was in the garage doing work with a grinder and welder and there were some sparks. He didn't think it was a problem. He went into the house and came back and the garage was on fire," said Rotterdam Police Lieutenant Tom Culbert.
The garage was engulfed in a matter of moments and quickly spread to the back of the house. Firefighters expected to be on the scene for hours, unsure of exactly what kind of toxins and chemicals were inside the garage.
And for that reason, they're asking onlookers to stay back. Though it's tough for folks to contain their curiosity about the fire and concern for the family.
The family got out of that home safely, there were no injuries.
It turns out, the Rotterdam Fire Chief was at a restaurant across the street on Altamont Avenue having dinner when the fire call came in. He was among the first to respond.
