A large brush fire erupted in Harriman State Park on Saturday, prompting a massive response from local and regional fire departments. The Hillburn Fire Department, alongside mutual aid companies from Orange, Bergen, and Rockland Counties, worked tirelessly throughout the day to contain the blaze. Operations were temporarily paused at sunset, and park rangers have been monitoring the site overnight to ensure continued safety.
Departments responding to the scene included fire units from Sloatsburg, Suffern, Tallman, Hillcrest, Thiells, New City, Rockland Lake, Tuxedo, and Mahwah, supported by specialized equipment, including units 44-1, 44-9, Chopper 1, and the TRT team. Additionally, Spring Hill Ambulance was dispatched to standby in Hillburn at approximately 1 p.m., deploying two ambulances, a paramedic, and members of their Special Operations Unit. Equipped with a truck, trailer, and a gator vehicle, the Special Operations Unit allowed for safe crew and equipment transportation to the rugged terrain where firefighters were stationed, ensuring rapid response capability for any potential injuries.
As of Sunday, firefighters returned to the scene, facing intensified conditions as the fire spread to cover approximately 15 acres near the Hillburn Industrial Park. The fire’s effects are now reaching across Rockland County, with smoke and a strong smell reported throughout the area.
