Shortly after 9:00 AM on January 21, 2005, Camden, New Jersey firefighters were dispatched to 25th & Federal Streets in the East Camden section of the City. Battalion Chief 2 Mike DiPascale was first on the scene and reported that he had a large 2-1/2 story frame dwelling with heavy fire showing and requested a second alarm.
The fire was racing through the upper floors and heavy fire was blowing out of the back of the building. Firefighters were making an interior attack but the blaze had taken command forcing them to withdraw for an exterior attack.
Tower Ladder 3 was setup in front of the dwelling and Tower Ladder 1 was taking the rear of the dwelling. Numerous lines were now in use. It was a sub-freezing day with temperatures in the upper teens coating the building and firefighters with ice.
The fire was placed under control in about 45 minutes by Car 2 Deputy Chief Tom Quinn. Luckily, there were no injuries. Two County Fire Canteen Units were dispatched to deliver hot refreshments to the weary, cold firefighters.
