A swift response by Cambridge firefighters quelled a serious blaze this past Saturday at a mixed commercial and residential building in North Cambridge. According to details released on the Cambridge Fire Department website, the two-and-a-half-story wood-frame structure at 1 Cottage Park Avenue was showing smoke and fire upon the arrival of the first responders. The fire, which commenced on the "Charlie" side of the building, prompted Engine 4 to implement a "fast attack mode," successfully establishing a water supply from a nearby hydrant to combat the flames.
All efforts to subdue the fire were collaborative, with multiple units including Engines 4, 8, 1, and 9, Somerville Engine 6, Ladders 4, 1, and 2; Squads 4 and 3; Rescue 1; and Divisions 2 and 1. All companies worked consistently to extinguish the interior blaze, conduct an overhaul and complete a search for occupants. In a stroke of fortune, all residents were safely evacuated, and there were no injuries reported.
The incident, which summoned duty group 4 and was first alarm signaled at 2:12 p.m., also saw Cambridge Police Department officers on the scene managing traffic deviation and ensuring pedestrian security in the vicinity. Pro EMS was present as a precautionary measure for standby EMS services, ensuring readiness in case medical attention was required.
The camaraderie and preparedness of those present on the scene extended to the Boston Sparks Association A-10, which arrived to provide member rehabilitation. Additionally, the Cambridge ISD (Inspectional Services Department) was also, on the ground to assess the aftermath of the fire's impact. While the conflaguration is now under control, the community's gratitude towards the fire and emergency teams remains as fervent as the flames they quelled.
