Brooklyn residents improvise meals after manhole fire disrupts Thanksgiving

On Thanksgiving Day, November 28, 2024, a manhole fire in Brooklyn, New York, led to the evacuation of several residents due to dangerous carbon monoxide levels. The fire, which started around noon, caused flames to spread to nearby buildings, prompting emergency services, including the New York City Fire Department (FDNY), to respond swiftly. As a consequence, residents of Brooklyn Heights were forced to abandon their holiday plans and set up their Thanksgiving meals outside their homes. James Deutsch, a local resident, described the frightening scene as terrifying flames erupted in front of his house. In addition to evacuating their home, approximately 82 customers lost power as a precautionary measure. Firefighters arrived at the scene and began controlling the fire, and by 6:30 p.m., the carbon monoxide levels had decreased enough for residents to return safely. However, the disruptions caused by the fire meant that power for many homes would not return until around midnight, leaving affected families with uncertainty on a day that is typically reserved for family gatherings and celebrations. Amidst these challenges, the Deutsch family made the best out of their situation. Firefighters managed to enter their home and help salvage their Thanksgiving dinner, allowing them to carry their turkey and sweet potatoes onto the sidewalk. Diana Deutsch underlined the spirit of resilience in the face of adversity, stating that while their gathering was smaller than planned, their family was safe. As the community dealt with the aftermath of the fire, the FDNY emphasized the efforts they made to assist the residents during this distressing time. FDNY Deputy Chief Stephen P. Corcoran noted that firefighters went the extra mile to ensure that families were able to celebrate Thanksgiving, despite the unfortunate events of the day. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of safety during public holidays and the community's ability to adapt when faced with unexpected challenges.