LaGrange, N.Y. – A two-alarm fire Saturday evening displaced several residents on Freedom Plains Road (Route 55) and underscored the ongoing need for a fully staffed fire department in Dutchess County’s fastest-growing town.
Fire Breaks Out on Route 55
The blaze was reported around 8 p.m. in a three-and-a-half-story Cape Cod-style home near Hillview Drive. Firefighters from LaGrange, Poughkeepsie, and Arlington responded quickly, with additional departments placed on standby.
Within 30 minutes, crews had the flames nearly extinguished, though traffic on Route 55 slowed significantly as emergency responders worked at the scene.
Cause Under Investigation
The Dutchess County Fire Investigation Division was called to determine the cause and origin of the blaze. While the investigation is ongoing, officials confirmed that no civilians or firefighters were injured during the incident.
The residents of the home were displaced, and local resources are assisting them as they recover from the damage.
Mutual Aid Response
Firefighter Kyle Rancourt of the LaGrange Fire Department praised the coordinated effort of career firefighters and volunteers who acted swiftly to contain the fire.
“The quick response and fast work by our career firefighters prevented a tragic disaster Saturday evening, showing once again the importance of having a fully-staffed and trained professional fire department, supplemented by dedicated volunteers, in the fastest growing town in the county,” Rancourt said.
He also expressed gratitude to neighboring departments: “We are thankful to our fellow career firefighters from Poughkeepsie and Arlington who responded to assist us at the incident, helping to prevent loss of life or property.”
Staffing Needs Emphasized
The incident has renewed conversations about fire department staffing levels in LaGrange. As the town continues to grow, officials and community members have pointed to the importance of maintaining a strong combination of professional and volunteer firefighters to ensure rapid response times.
Saturday’s fire serves as a reminder of how quickly emergencies can escalate and the critical role that well-staffed fire departments play in protecting lives and property.
Community Safety First
Though the home sustained significant damage, the coordinated work of multiple fire departments prevented a much larger disaster. Officials have urged residents to remain vigilant about fire safety, check smoke detectors regularly, and review home evacuation plans.
As the investigation into the cause of the fire continues, local leaders are expected to revisit discussions about staffing, resources, and the future needs of emergency services in LaGrange.
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