HILLSDALE, N.J.— A fire in the cafeteria kitchen at Pascack Valley High School early Thursday morning prompted a multi-town emergency response and led to the school’s closure for the day.
According to Hillsdale Fire Chief William Farrell, the Hillsdale Fire Department was dispatched at 4:54 a.m. on May 8 to a fire alarm activation at 200 Piermont Ave. Farrell arrived shortly after, established command, and used his Knox key to access the building. Upon entry, he encountered heavy smoke, which was traced to the cafeteria area.
A box alarm was immediately requested, bringing mutual aid from River Vale (Engine) and Westwood (Ladder). Hillsdale’s Engine 1 arrived and stretched a handline to begin interior operations.
With the smoke condition worsening, Farrell requested a working fire assignment. Additional support came from Woodcliff Lake (Squad), Old Tappan (Squad for Rapid Intervention Team), and the Township of Washington (Ladder).
Hillsdale Volunteer Ambulance was also dispatched as part of the working fire assignment at 5:11 a.m. The EMS crew stood by on scene as the EMS Branch, ready to assist, and remained for just over an hour before being released by fire command at 6:22 a.m. No injuries were reported and no patients required medical evaluation.
At the 32-minute mark, Deputy Chief Kelley, leading operations, reported the fire under control. Investigators determined the fire originated from a refrigeration unit in the kitchen, with extension into the ductwork above. The fire marshal is investigating the cause.
Due to the extensive smoke throughout the school and out of an abundance of caution for student safety, Farrell ordered the school closed for the remainder of the day.
The school serves families in Hillsdale and River Vale. The school calendar said a day of AP testing was scheduled.