Smoke Detectors 'Likely Saved Lives' In North Stamford House Fire: FD | Stamford, CT Patch

STAMFORD, CT — Stamford fire officials are crediting smoke detectors for alerting occupants of a fire at a North Stamford home in the early morning hours of Oct. 16.

One Stamford firefighter was injured during the call and taken to Stamford Hospital for treatment, Stamford Deputy Fire Chief Philip Hayes said in a news release.

The Stamford Fire Department responded to a house fire in the 100 block of Hardesty Lane around 2 a.m. Wednesday, Hayes said.

Arriving units found heavy fire conditions at the rear of the single-family home, which had spread on the interior from the first floor to the second floor and attic space, Hayes said, noting thick smoke was pushing out from the second-floor windows and roof dormers.

Firefighters from Engine 8 initiated an exterior attack, while Engine 9 crews entered through the front of the home to combat the interior blaze, Hayes said.

Due to the rural location of the home in North Stamford, a water tanker operation was set up to ensure a continuous water supply, with tankers from the Turn of River Volunteer Fire Department and Long Ridge Volunteer Fire Department supporting SFD crews. Two portable pools were established on-site to facilitate the operation.

The fire was declared under control at 3:10 a.m., with all occupants having safely evacuated the home thanks to the "timely activation" of their smoke detectors, Hayes said. It's unclear how many people were in the home at the time of the fire.

The cause and origin of the fire are currently under investigation by the Stamford Fire Marshal’s Division.

"Smoke detectors are our first line of defense in keeping families safe from fire. Today, we saw just how effective they can be in giving occupants precious time to escape safely," said Stamford Fire Chief Robert Morris in a news release. "The presence of working smoke detectors in this home made all the difference. We urge everyone to take a moment today to check theirs. It’s a small step that could save your life."

The SFD is reminding residents about the importance of having working smoke detectors.

For those in need, the SFD offers free smoke detectors with installation. For more information, go to the Stamford Fire website, click on "Contact" in the main menu, and select "Smoke Detector Installation," or call the public information hotline at 203-977-5500 to schedule a free installation appointment.