Saturday, November 8, 2025
More than 100 firefighters responded Sunday night to a house fire on Merrick Avenue near Prospect Avenue, where crews found heavy smoke pouring from a two-story home.
The fire broke out Sept. 28 at 10:10 p.m., just as East Meadow Fire Department volunteers were preparing for Sunday morning training. Pagers and cell phones alerted firefighters, and within one minute Chief of Department Michael J. Wood and 2nd Assistant Chief Jeffrey A. Rosenthal had radioed their response.
Three minutes later, Engine 614, Engine 612, and Ladder 617 were on the road, followed by the remainder of East Meadow’s first-alarm assignment, including Engine 611, Ladder 619, Engine 613, Heavy Rescue 616, and Ambulance 615.
When Wood arrived on scene, he found heavy smoke billowing from the home and transmitted a Signal 10, indicating a working fire. Ladder 617, Engine 612, and Engine 614 arrived close behind.
Firefighters searching through the thick smoke discovered an attic fire that likely began in the kitchen before spreading upward. Ladder company crews worked to pull ceilings while engine crews stretched two attack lines into the attic.
Mutual aid was requested from several neighboring fire departments for scene support. Additional units covered East Meadow’s fire stations while crews fought the blaze.
Within 30 minutes, all visible fire had been knocked down, though firefighters continued opening ceilings and walls to expose hidden flames.
In total, 70 East Meadow volunteers responded to the call, with another 30 firefighters assisting through mutual aid.
Damage was limited to parts of the second floor and attic, with smoke and water damage throughout the home.
The Nassau County Fire Marshal’s office is investigating. Nassau County police, PSE&G, the American Red Cross, the East Meadow Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary, and the Town of Hempstead Building Department also responded to provide support ranging from shutting down power to assisting the occupants and securing the home.
No injuries were reported.
