Monsey Fire Communications (MFC) played a critical role early Shabbos morning after receiving a call from a local homeowner whose basement was quickly filling with smoke.
Sources tell Monsey Scoop that the incident occurred around 4:00 a.m. when the homeowner was awakened by his smoke detector. Upon investigation, he discovered his basement was filled with smoke caused by an electrical issue stemming from a water leak. Thanks to the quick action of the Monsey Fire Communications dispatcher—who was able to communicate clearly with the panicked homeowner —firefighters from the Monsey Fire Department were already en route even before 44-Control officially dispatched the call.
This highlights the vital importance of Monsey Fire Communications, whose local dispatchers are familiar with the neighborhoods and able to provide faster, more accurate information directly to responding firefighters — often making a crucial difference in emergency situations. Thanks to the quick response, no injuries were reported, and the damage was contained. The homeowner’s rabbi later instructed him to recite the blessing of gratitude for his safety.
Monsey Fire Communications can be reached 24/7 on their hotline at 845-425-9300.
In a separate and unrelated incident on Shabbos afternoon, Monsey Fire Department Captain responded to a different call around 4:30 p.m. Sources tell Monsey Scoop that as he approached his vehicle to respond, he discovered several traffic cones placed in front of it and rocks positioned under the tires, apparently intended to block or damage the vehicle. The Captain was forced to remove the obstacles, delaying his emergency response. When he returned home later, he was physically confronted and harassed by an individual—possibly a teenager—who aggressively got in his face and shouted at him.
Monsey Scoop notes that such behavior is unacceptable and should be strongly condemned by community leaders and Rabbonim. It is beyond normal behavior to harass and obstruct volunteers who jump out of bed on and risk their lives for the safety of others.
Authorities are aware of the harassment incident, and it remains under investigation.
