2-Alarm Fire Displaces Family At Parker Apartments In Westfield

WESTFIELD, NJ — A two-alarm fire at the Parker apartment building has displaced a family of six in Westfield.

On Sunday, July 7 at 2:24 p.m., the Westfield Fire Department responded to the report of an active fire in the area of the 300 block of West Broad Street.

The first Westfield Fire Department units arrived on scene at 2:27 p.m., to find a 3-story multi-family dwelling, with fire showing from the structure's first floor, said Westfield Fire Chief Michael Duelks.

Immediately, firefighters established an aggressive fire attack, with an interior search of the building to confirm everyone was safely evacuated.

The incident escalated to two alarms, bringing in Union County Fire Mutual Aid companies to the scene and resources staged at fire headquarters to cover the town for additional calls.

The Westfield Police Department helped with evacuating the building, traffic, and crowd control. The Westfield Rescue Squad, along with emergency medical services from around the county, helped in providing firefighter rehabilitation. No injuries were reported.

The fire was placed under control at 3:03 p.m., with firefighters remaining on scene into the late afternoon hours.

The fire was investigated by The Westfield Fire Prevention Bureau, The Westfield Police Department, The Union County Fire Investigation Task Force.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation at this time. Red Cross was requested to the scene to assist the residents in relocation.

Red Cross New Jersey volunteers helped a family of six with emergency assistance for temporary lodging, food, clothing and other immediate needs.

The Westfield Fire Department reminds everyone that working smoke alarms save lives. Make sure that your smoke alarms are tested monthly and are less than 10 years old.

For more information on fire safety, contact the Westfield Fire Prevention Bureau at
fireprevention@westfieldnj.gov.

Have a news tip? Email alexis.tarrazi@patch.com.