Forest Fire 4/18/2009
On 4/18 2009, at 9:30 PM, all Ringwood fire companies were dispatched to the area of Stonetown and Westbrook Roads for a report of a "fire in the woods". Stonetown Chief 260 responded with Assistant Chief 265, Tanker 262, and Tanker 263. After receiving numerous calls the location of the fire was pinpointed at the top of the mountain on the Highlands Trail that enters the woods on Stonetown Road just north of Westbrook Road. Stonetown Chief, Bart Lidsky, assumed command and Assistant Chief, Ken Diaz, assumed operations. Assisted by Erskine units 241, and 243, Skyline units 252, and 253, and NJ Forest Fire Service units Diaz led units up the mountain to the fire area. The fire was located 1/4 mile in from the road, however, that 1/4 mile was at a 60% grade with a grade change in excess of 500 feet. Approximately 25 firefighters, and 8 Forest Fire personnel, ascended the mountain carrying water packs, blowers, and hand tools. After locating the fire they were able to clear a ring around an area of about 1/2 an acre and contain the fire. After fighting the blaze for almost three hours all personnel descended the mountain and reported to the rehab area where all personnel were checked, and cleared, by the Ringwood Ambulance Corp. personnel. The Stonetown Ladies Aux. provided food and beverages for the firefighters at the rehab area. During the night the fire jumped the line and grew to almost 4 acres. It was attacked with over 50 air drops, by helicopter, refilling from the Wanaque Reservoir the next day. It was not totally declared out until Wednesday after an all day rain. Due to the remoteness of the area access for photographs of the fire ground was not possible.
