Story & Photos by MICHAEL HEILBRONN

The East Brunswick Independent Fire Company was dispatched for a fire at the Quality Auto Spa on Rt. 18 North at approx. 4:40 am, Saturday, September 21st.

First arriving crews were met with heavy fire conditions from the front of the building as well as fire through the roof, including several vehicles inside the structure.

The Incident Commander transmitted a second alarm on arrival, bringing the East Brunswick Fire District # 1 and the South River Fire Department to the scene.

Defensive operations were used from the start.

The East Brunswick Independent Fire Company put in service one snorkel and one ladder truck to help control the blaze, with the assistance of several master streams and 2 1/2" handlines.

The fire was placed under control in approx. 45 minutes, with crews on location for several hours to take care of hot spots and clean up.

Fire companies from East Brunswick, South River and New Brunswick operated at the scene, with station coverage provided by departments from Milltown, Sayreville, Spotswood and North Brunswick.