Supervisor praises community response to Cliff Haven fire
PLATTSBURGH — The unsung hero of Wednesday's house fire on Champlain Drive in the Town of Plattsburgh's Cliff Haven neighborhood was the water department, a township supervisor said.
As the fire engulfed the house and firefighters put stress on the water system to put it out, a water main break occurred and disrupted service for 47 Cliff Haven households.
'Without hesitation, our Water Department mobilized, isolating the issue and initiating repairs,' Town Supervisor Michael Cashman said Wednesday night.
'These moments are never easy, and solutions take time but I have no doubt in their priorities: Public health, safety and restoration. Their commitment is quiet but profound, and today it deserves to be celebrated as well.'
The several local departments that showed up to put down the blaze as quickly as they did need their flowers as well, Cashman said.
Cashman said the South Plattsburgh Fire Department led the charge with automatic aid quickly arriving from the Plattsburgh City and Peru fire departments.
'Their swift response was joined by a network of mutual aid from District #3, Morrisonville, Beekmantown, and Keeseville Fire Departments, with Cumberland Head and Keeseville standing by to cover the region,' he said. 'Emergency medical support from CVPH, support from CCOES Car 7 and investigators and crucial coordination from NYSP, NYSEG and Town Code Enforcement helped keep operations running smoothly and safely.'
No injuries were reported in the blaze that displaced two adults.
Volunteers with the American Red Cross provided immediate emergency aid to two people, organizers with the Northeastern New York Chapter of the American Red Cross said.
According to Red Cross leaders, financial assistance has been provided two adults to be can used for shelter, food and clothing. Volunteers also offered health services, comfort kits containing personal care items, and blankets.
Both residents are eligible for Veterans' services, officials said. In the coming days, Red Cross staff and volunteers will remain available to help those affected by the fire.
Cashman said earlier this week, he attended a joint fire training session with several of the local departments that left an impression on him.
'Watching those men and women commit themselves to readiness left a lasting impression and today, their training was put into action. The outcome speaks for itself,' he said. 'As thick smoke filled the air this morning, I stood alongside first responders and watched as our region's did what it does best respond in times of crisis.'
On scene Wednesday, Cashman said the fire was called in by a local resident.
'Early calls save lives. Community vigilance is one of our strongest defenses. Today was difficult, but it was also a powerful reminder of what makes this community special. Volunteers. Public servants. Neighbors. All stepping forward in unity,' he said.
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