Thursday, September 12, 2013

BREAKING NEWS: Multi-Alarm Fire Burning On Seaside Boardwalk Under Control

Seaside Park, New Jersey - A major fire that has gone to at least eight alarms on the Funtown Pier in Seaside Park has been put under control, says firefighters on scene. The fire had previously spread to four blocks, and firefighters were trying all day to contain it.

The cause of the fire is unknown at this time. Only minor injuries are reported, according to Governor Christie. Authorities say that there is massive property damage, mostly along the boardwalk. Multiple strike teams from neighboring counties are on scene to help battle the fire. Pipelines have been established, according to fire officials.

According to Governor Christie's press conference at 7 p.m., there were 35 engine companies, 15 ladder companies and approximately 400 firefighters on scene. He assured everyone that he will provide any resources necessary to fight the fire. The 30 mph winds, according to Christie, were making the fire hard to contain. In his presser, he also told the public to not come back to area until authorities deemed it safe.

Officials say the fire began at 1807 Boardwalk and Stockton Avenue, at the Kohr's Frozen Custard Stand, about two blocks from Seaside Heights.

The flames erupted around 2:30 p.m. and quickly spread north. SkyFOX showed flames just eating through the newly-laid boardwalk. Crews had worked all spring to replace the boards torn away by Superstorm Sandy last fall.

By 3 p.m., there were reports that embers were starting to blow beyond the fire scene, and fire companies were called in to assist from several surrounding communities. Firefighters were forced to rip out some of the boardwalk to lay a waterline.

Winds are coming from the South, which is pushing the fire North toward a new section of the boardwalk. Fire crews are working to prevent the fire from spreading North.

Governor Christie's press office issued this statement:

Pictures and video of the fire are startling and sad given what Seaside Park and neighboring Seaside Heights have endured with Superstorm Sandy. Governor Christie is deeply concerned and will get a first-hand look shortly at the scene, where he will be speaking further with Mayor Matthies and Mayor Akers and offering the state's full resources and assistance. Our concerns and prayers are also with firefighters and first responders at the scene battling the blaze.

RCN America Network send prayers to the firefighters, business owners that lot everything and the community as this is the second time being hard hit by a disaster. Almost a year ago this same area was hit by superstorm Sandy.

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