Fire Consumes Kent Place Blvd. House, Garage

The Summit Fire Department responded to a second alarm structure fire at 267 Kent Place Blvd on Saturday morning.

Heavy smoke and fire was seen coming from both the house and the attached garage when the department arrived on scene.  Off-duty career and volunteer Summit firefighters were called to the scene as well as Springfield, Union, and Westfield fire departments.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation, said Battalion Chief Richard Locke via e-mail, but appears to be accidental.

Summit EMS was also called to scene for an occupant who was burned, and to assist the firefighters.  The patient was transported to St. Barnabas Burn Center, Locke said.

Locke said in a press relase that an aggressive fire attack was made which contained the bulk of the fire to the garage.  Heat and smoke damaged the first floor of the home through an open door.

Mountainside, New Providence, and Scotch Plains fire departments were moved into Summit fire headquarters by Union County Mutual Aid for any additional calls. 

Residents are reminded of the need to check that smoke detectors are working properly, and that the batteries are replaced annually.  Each family should also create and practice a fire emergency plan in case a fire should occur.  The Summit Fire Prevention Bureau is willing to assist any homeowner in creating or reviewing a plan.