Electrical Explosion Sparks Fire at Building on Quickway Road

By Y.M. Lowy

Photos by: Y. Stein

A structure fire was contained this morning following an explosion near the electrical meter area of a building on 12 Quickway Road.

Members of the Kiryas Joel Fire Department responded quickly after receiving reports of smoke coming from the building. Upon arrival, firefighters found an active electrical fire involving wiring and equipment near the meters.

Because live electrical fires cannot be safely extinguished until power is disconnected, Orange & Rockland Utilities was called to the scene to shut off electricity to the building.

The rapid response by firefighters helped prevent the fire from spreading further into the structure. By the time power was secured and crews completed their operations, the fire had been extinguished and the building was spared from what could have become a much more extensive blaze.

Also responding to the scene were the State Police, KJ Hatzolah, and Kiryas Joel Public Safety.

No injuries were reported. However, the building remains without electrical service while repairs and inspections are carried out.