Firefighters Injured In Hundred Acre Brush Fire In Bridgewater

BRIDGEWATER, NJ — Multiple firefighters were injured fighting a brush fire that spread several hundred acres in Martinsville into Mountain Park in Basking Ridge.

The fire drew firefighters from nearby towns and even an airplane dropping water on Thursday night.

Just before 5 p.m. on April 13, a fire started on the ridge behind 1490 Long Road and spread towards Mountain Park in Bernard's Township, said Bill Rose with the Martinsville Volunteer Fire Department.

"Given the dangerous conditions the fire spread quickly and covered several hundred acres before the fire was contained, and included air tanker operations by the NJ Forestry Service," said Rose.

Several firefighters were injured, but have been released after being evaluated. The origin of the fire is currently under investigation, said Rose.

Fire operations involved Martinsville Fire, Liberty Corner Fire, Bernardsville Fire, Far Hills Bedminister Fire, Pepack Gladstone Fire. Pottersville Fire, Warren Fire, Bound Brook Fire, NJ State Forestry units, Somerset County EMS. Bridgewater Police, and the Somerset County Prosecutors Office.

"We continue to monitor the area and remind everyone of the dangerous conditions that continue to exist during the current weather conditions," said Rose.

In addition to the wild land fire, Martinsville Fire also responded to a propane grill fire and a forcible entry event in support of EMS units.

The Martinsville Volunteer Fire Department is always looking for volunteers. If interested in volunteering or for more information visit martinsvillefire.org or call 732-469-1955 or facebook.com/Station43. Or stop by the fire station at 1912 Washington Valley Road on Mondays at 7:30 p.m.

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