On May 8th, at 0454 hours, the Hillsdale Fire Department was dispatched to an activated fire alarm at 200 Piermont Ave, Pascack Valley High School. 27 Car 1 (Chief Farrell) arrived shortly after, establishing command, and releasing his Knox key to gain access to the building. Once Chief Farrell made entry, he was met with a heavy smoke condition, and after a brief investigation, it was determined to be coming from the cafeteria area.

A box alarm was requested, bringing an Engine from River Vale and a Ladder from Westwood. 27 Engine 1 arrived on scene and immediately began stretching a handline and sent their crew in to locate the fire. Chief Farrell then requested his working fire assignment, bringing a Squad from Woodcliff Lake, a Squad from Old Tappan for RIT, and a Ladder from Township of Washington.

At the 32 minute mark, the fire was deemed under control after a report from Operations (DC Kelley). The origin was determined to be a refrigeration unit in the kitchen with extension to the duct work above. The cause of the fire is being investigated by the borough’s Fire Marshal.

Due to the amount of smoke throughout the school, and an abundance of caution for the students, Chief Farrell determined the school will remained closed for the day.