No evacuation needed after smoke report at Long Beach facility
- Firefighters were called to the Park Avenue Extended Care center after smoke was reported in the building.
- The smoke was traced back to two burned-out motors in the heating system, which did not cause any fire to spread.
- The effective response ensured that no residents were evacuated and they remained largely unaffected.
In the early hours of Wednesday, December 4, 2024, Long Beach firefighters answered an emergency call regarding smoke in a local extended care facility located on Park Avenue. At approximately 5:30 a.m., the team arrived to investigate reports of smoke emanating from the upper floors of the building. Firefighters quickly proceeded to search the premises to identify the source of the smoke. Fortunately, they discovered that the smoke originated from two burned-out motors in the building's heating system. No fire had spread to any other parts of the facility, indicating that the situation was under control before it could escalate. During this incident, officials confirmed that no evacuations were necessary, as the residents were largely unaffected. The prompt response and effective management of the situation played a crucial role in ensuring the safety of the residents. Firefighters from surrounding areas, including Point Lookout-Lido, Oceanside, Lawrence-Cedarhurst, Woodmere, Freeport, and Atlantic Beach, assisted in the operation to ensure that everything was handled efficiently and securely. Additionally, both Nassau County and Long Beach Emergency Management teams responded to the scene to provide further support in managing the situation. The collaboration between the various fire departments and emergency management services was instrumental in addressing the incident without causing panic or disturbance among the residents. City officials reassured that the safety protocols in place were effective, and the smoke incident underscored the importance of rapid response in emergency situations. The incident ultimately had a positive outcome, with no injuries reported and the situation resolved without major disruption to the care facility. This event highlights the critical role that emergency services play in ensuring the safety and security of community members, particularly in facilities like nursing homes where residents may be more vulnerable. It serves as a reminder of the necessity for proper maintenance of infrastructure, such as heating systems, to prevent potential hazards in the future.