Firefighters from across Rockland County braved frigid temperatures on Tuesday as they spent more than four hours battling a stubborn fire that tore through a vacant home in Spring Valley. The blaze, which broke out around 9:00 AM at 1 Wolfe Drive, sent thick smoke billowing into the air, visible from miles away.
Despite the freezing weather and extremely challenging conditions, firefighters worked like absolute warriors, forcing their way through heavy fire on the second floor and attic of the 2½-story wood-frame home. The main body of fire was eventually knocked down, but crews remained on scene for hours chasing deep-seated hot spots. The fire was not fully brought under control until shortly after 1:00 PM.
Multiple agencies responded, including the Spring Valley, South Spring Valley, Monsey, West Nyack, Suffern, Orangeburg, New City, and Hillcrest Fire Departments, working side by side in a massive coordinated effort.
EMS crews from Rockland Hatzolah and Spring Hill EMS, along with the Spring Valley Police Department and Rockland County Sheriff’s Office, also assisted at the scene. Several firefighters were treated for smoke inhalation.
The Monsey Fire Department’s RAC Unit (Rest and Comfort) played a critical support role, providing exhausted firefighters with hot drinks, pizza, and refreshments, a much-needed boost as they operated for hours in bitter cold.
A neighboring attached home sustained some fire extension, though most of the damage there was from water and smoke. Fortunately, no civilian injuries were reported, and the primary residence involved was vacant.
As temperatures continued to drop, the Spring Valley Department of Public Works was seen spreading salt along Wolfe Drive after water from the firefight began icing over the roadway. DPW crews acted quickly to stabilize the area and prevent hazardous conditions.
Fire officials are expected to investigate the cause of the blaze.
