Firefighter Hospitalized, Seven Residents Displaced in Hamden Fire

HAMDEN, CT — Seven residents were displaced and one firefighter was hospitalized for heat exhaustion and dehydration as a result of a structure fire at a three-family home on Beacon Street late Sunday afternoon.

The third floor of the home sustained extensive fire damage, according to fire officials.

Firefighters responded to the scene of the reported third-floor fire on Beacon Street at about 4:23 p.m.

Crews from the Circular Avenue station arrived on the scene and reported fire showing from the rear on the third floor, according to Deputy Fire Chief Gary Merwede.

“Engine 2 and Rescue 2 committed to fire attack and search on the fire floor with other responding companies on the way,” Merwede said in a press release. “All residents were found to be out of the structure and safe. Fire crews were successful in keeping the fire confined to the third floor with partial extension to the rear attic space.”

The fire was declared under control at 4:48 p.m.

“Overhaul continued in the attic spaces and interior walls of the home for an additional time period,” Merwede said. “Concurrent with this effort, crews were assigned to the first and second floors to prevent further water and smoke damage.

“The fire suppression was difficult due to the high ambient temperatures and humidity. One fire lieutenant was transported to YNHH for heat exhaustion and dehydration.”

The firefighter was expected to be discharged later Sunday evening, according to Merwede.

There were no additional civilian or fire department injuries.

The American Red Cross was called to assist the seven displaced residents.

“The third floor of the home has extensive fire damage and the second floor has some water damage due to the suppression effort,” Merwede said. “The first-floor residents are being displaced as a precaution (on Sunday evening.)”

The Hamden Building Inspector will inspect the structure again on Monday for habitability, according to Merwede.

“The Hamden CERT Team was called to the scene to assist with a rehab area for residents and firefighters,” Merwede said. “Misting fans, water bottles and cold sports drinks were made available due to the extreme temperatures and arduous working conditions. AMR and HFD medics monitored the vital signs of all members.”

The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

Photos courtesy of the Hamden Fire Department