Hillsdale, NJ – Ten Firefighters Injured Battling House Fire on Ellen Ct
Hillsdale, NJ (October 21, 2025) – Early Tuesday morning, October 21, ten Hillsdale firefighters sustained injuries while responding to a house fire on Ellen Court in Bergen County.
According to Chief William Farrell, the fire broke out around 3:45 a.m. on the rear deck of a home and quickly spread into the attic. While battling the blaze, firefighters briefly lost their water supply, which led to a “flashover”, a dangerous event where all combustible materials in an area ignite almost simultaneously.
A mayday was called, prompting all firefighters inside the home to evacuate immediately. Emergency personnel treated the injured firefighters on-site, while additional crews successfully knocked down the fire.
The Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office Arson Squad and the Hillsdale Fire Marshal are investigating the cause of the fire. Authorities could not immediately provide further details about the incident or the condition of the property.
We extend our best wishes for a full and speedy recovery to the injured firefighters.
Common Causes of House Fires
House fires can occur unexpectedly and spread quickly, posing significant risks to residents and first responders alike. Understanding the most common causes of residential fires can help prevent accidents and improve safety.
Cooking-related incidents: Unattended cooking is the leading cause of house fires nationwide. Grease fires, overheating pans, or leaving the stove or oven unattended can ignite surrounding materials, leading to rapid fire spread.
Electrical malfunctions: Faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, or malfunctioning appliances can spark fires. Older homes with outdated electrical systems are particularly vulnerable to electrical fires.
Heating equipment: Portable heaters, fireplaces, and wood-burning stoves can become fire hazards if placed too close to combustible materials such as curtains, furniture, or clothing. Improper maintenance or unattended heating equipment increases risk.
Smoking materials: Cigarettes, cigars, and other smoking materials remain a common source of residential fires. Fires often start when smoking materials are not properly extinguished or discarded in flammable areas.
Candles and open flames: While often used for ambiance or lighting, candles and other open flames can ignite nearby objects. Fires can start quickly if candles are left unattended or placed near curtains, bedding, or paper products.
Outdoor fire sources: Decks, grills, and outdoor fire pits can ignite home structures if used carelessly. Sparks, embers, or proximity to combustible materials can result in fast-moving fires.
Arson and intentional fires: Although less common, some house fires are deliberately set. Investigators, such as local arson squads, examine evidence to determine whether a fire was caused intentionally.
Educating homeowners, maintaining smoke detectors, and practicing safe fire habits are pivotal steps to prevent residential fires. First responders, like firefighters, face significant hazards when responding to such emergencies, making fire prevention a critical public safety priority.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a fire incident in Bergen County, contact a personal injury attorney today to protect your rights and ensure you receive the compensation and support you deserve.
At Stern & Stern in Englewood Cliffs, we also support first responders and homeowners affected by fire-related injuries or property damage. Our team helps navigate insurance claims, liability, and legal recovery.
After you or a loved one has been injured in a fire incident, call (201) 569-2222 for a free and confidential consultation with our dedicated lawyers at Stern & Stern. We are ready to guide you through the claims process and fight for the compensation you deserve to get your life back on track.
Notes: Stern&Stern, LLP utilizes secondary sources to create this post. The facts surrounding this specific accident have not been independently verified. If you find any information that is inaccurate or incorrect, please contact Stern&Stern, LLP. We will update the post promptly to reflect the most accurate details available.
Disclaimers: None of the information in this post is intended to be legal advice or medical advice. This post is not a solicitation for business. If you have been injured in an accident, please seek medical attention as soon as possible. The photo used in this post was not taken at the actual accident scene.