GENEVA — The city’s fire chief said a quick response Friday morning helped contain a fire at a Pulteney Street apartment building.
Chief Del Parrotta said fire broke out in an apartment shortly before 6:30 a.m. at 211 Pulteney St., a 14-unit apartment building. He said the “rapid and coordinated efforts” of firefighters brought the fire under control in less than 10 minutes, limiting it to the living room of the apartment where the fire broke out and preventing significant damage to the rest of the building.
Parrotta said one tenant was taken by Finger Lakes Ambulance to Geneva General Hospital to be evaluated for possible smoke inhalation.
According to Parrotta, a total of 38 firefighters were at the scene. The cause of the fire is being investigated.
“The teamwork and professionalism demonstrated by all responding agencies brought this fire under control quickly and contained it to the room of origin, ultimately saving the building,” Parrotta said. “I want to thank all of our firefighters, mutual aid partners, and support agencies for their outstanding work.”
Parrotta said about 10 residents were evacuated and displaced for about one hour while firefighters ventilated the building. He noted that two residents remained displaced until repairs were completed in the affected apartment.
Parrotta, Deputy Fire Chief Michael Bucklin, and Assistant Fire Chief Dan Gallagher directed operations involving two engine companies, the ladder company, and the rescue squad.
He said the Hydrant Hose and Nester Hose engine companies, led by Capts. Paul and Steve Lathey, initiated an aggressive interior move, while the C.J. Folger Hook & Ladder Company, led by Capt. Jim Babb, conducted ventilation and ladder operations. Parrotta said the Black Diamond Rescue Squad, led by Capt. Rick Rhinehart, performed a primary search for occupants and checked to see if the fire extended elsewhere.
Parrotta also lauded the Geneva Police Department, which he said was instrumental in establishing traffic control and securing the scene, including the temporary shutdown of surrounding roadways.
Traffic along South Main Street was impacted briefly, as fire hose lines were deployed across the roadway during operations.
The White Springs, West Lake Road, and Border City fire departments assisted at the scene.
The scene was cleared at about 9:30 a.m., Parrotta said.