Some firefighters sent treated for heat fighting this 4alm fire in Jersey City. Covering for #1010WINS #JCFD pic.twitter.com/R1XEG1PDIB
— garybaumgarten (@garybaumgarten) July 19, 2013
More than 50 firefighters were reportedly injured after battling a four-alarm fire today in Jersey City, reports NBC New York.
Here’s what you need to know…
1. The Fire Tore Through Several Buildings
The firefighters were battling a massive fire that spread through several buildings at John F. Kennedy Boulevard and Boyd Avenue in Jersey City.
2. Along With the Blaze, Firefighters Were Battling Soaring Temperatures
As temperatures reached 99 degrees today in Jersey City, firefighters could be seen battling the blaze wearing full flame-retardant gear. Around 25 of those injured were treated at the scene for injuries related to the extreme weather conditions.
3. Most of the Injured Were Rushed to Hospital
Another 25 or so firefighters were taken to hospitals with various injuries, some related to the eat. At least one suffered a back injury, and another injured his ankle.
4. The Fire Broke Out in an ‘Illegal Apartment’
The cause of the blaze has not been discovered. The fire tore through at least three homes in the area. NJ.com is reporting that the fire took place in an “illegal apartment.”
5. Reports From the Scene Say Explosions Were Heard
One neighbor reported hearing explosions, telling NBC New York, she said:
…it was black smoke, a boom and the house just went up again