Off-duty firefighter noticed employees struggling to put off fire in food truck — his quick intervention averted disaster
First responders take their role of protecting and looking out for others quite seriously — even when they’re off duty. To them, saving a life — regardless of where or when — is important. Off-duty Ocean City firefighter Brian McCloud showed this real commitment towards his role when a food truck caught fire in Longport, New Jersey, as reported by NBC 10 Philadelphia. Sharing in a press release, the Longport Police Department revealed that the fire was quickly contained, averting serious damage due to the thoughtful actions of officers and bystanders like McCloud.
The Betty’s Seafood Truck was parked on 28th Avenue when it caught fire. The footage captured the truck parked as flames erupted from it. The fire was reportedly coming from the truck’s generator. With other vehicles close to it and residential areas around, it was a worrisome scenario. “All we heard was people running and screaming,” Gianna Bracalent, a neighbor, recalled. The workers immediately began putting out the fire as soon as they noticed it. That’s when McCloud, who was off duty, also jumped into the picture. The firefighter knew the drill and was able to promptly assist in successfully dousing the fire before it spread to a concerning level.
Other officials on patrol, as well as bystanders, eventually saw the smoke and flames and arrived to render help in time. After trying to put out the fire with a garden hose, they quickly got hold of an extinguisher and were able to clear up the flames. Their swift and coordinated actions helped safely put out the fire without injuring many. The officials also ensured they alerted the residents in the area so they could be safe in case of any worries. The neighbor remarked, "It’s scary because our houses are so close, especially down the shore, so our house could have easily caught fire.”
Thanks to the efforts of McCloud and the others, things worked out well just in time. A young man who was standing close to the truck was moderately injured due to the incident. However, he quickly received first aid and was later transported to the hospital and made a full recovery. “The Longport Fire Department responded promptly and ensured the fire was fully extinguished and the generator no longer posed any risk. Fire personnel also provided continued care to the injured party,” the police department revealed.
Chief Frank Culmone of the Longport Police Department noted that it was the united action of people coming together that made a difference and averted major damage and threat to civilians. "That fire was in such close proximity to that large propane tank at the back of that food truck and this could have been catastrophic," Culmone said. Commending the efforts of all, the department wrote, “We’re especially grateful to the food truck employees and nearby bystanders who jumped into action alongside our officers. Their quick thinking helped prevent further injuries and damage. The partnership between the public and first responders was a clear example of what community safety looks like in action.”