Croton Falls Fire Department assists at Rockland County brush fires sparked by CSX train

A CSX train sparked about two dozen brush fires in Rockland County Friday, prompting a massive response from 26 regional fire departments, including the Croton Falls Fire Department.

Six members of Croton Falls’ volunteer department were dispatched to Route 9W and Short Clove Road in Haverstraw just after 4 p.m. The firefighters stretched multiple hand lines and operated along the wooded area adjacent to the train tracks. The crew operated for several hours before being released by Rockland County Command just before 9:00 p.m.

“It was amazing to see all of the departments from different counties, and departments from out of state come together and work to protect a community that we have never been to," said. Croton Falls Fire second assistant chief Mark McCabe. "It’s moments like those that show why we love to volunteer and help anyone in need regardless of where the emergency is.”

In a Facebook post, the Rockland County Government said that the fire consumed 50-70 acres across the County. Four homes in Congers were damaged from the heat melting siding, two sheds were destroyed, and several fences and vehicles were also damaged. Multiple hot spots continued to pop up through Saturday morning.

Route 9W will remain closed through Sunday afternoon due to falling trees and rocks from the fires.