The City of Longport (NJ) Fire Department in Atlantic County responded to a report of a smoke coming from the chimney area of a home on the 1500 block of Sunset Avenue at about 4:15 p.m., on October 27, 2024. First-in units found smoke showing and immediately called for mutual aid from surrounding communities, according to Dennis C. Sharpe, fire photographer for Atlantic County, New Jersey. The fire grew to multiple alarms before being brought under control.
This was a Type 5A construction, meaning the ceilings were built with two layers of 5/8” drywall and the roof was terracotta over plywood, over steel. (Photo by Dennis C. Sharpe.)
According to BreakingAC.com, responding departments included Linwood, Margate, Northfield, Ocean City, Somers Point, and Ventnor. Egg Harbor Township companies from Bargaintown and Scullville also responded.
“Large dwellings sitting on the waterfront create multiple hazards for firefighters,” said Michael N. Ciampo, technical editor, Fire Engineering. “These dwellings often have multiple levels with unique designs. They are constructed with various materials. Operating around the structure must be done cautiously so nobody falls into the water. Apparatus positioning may not be possible on many sides of the structure. In some cases, fireboats may be an asset, as their streams can be used to attack the fire or for pumping water to units operating on scene.”
According to a press release, at approximately 6:39 p.m., the fire was reported to be under control. The department’s statement included a thank you to responding departments: “We commend all first responders for their swift and coordinated efforts in bringing the situation under control.”
