[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 20 (Thursday, February 5, 2015)]
[House]
[Page H816]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                           FIRE IN EDGEWATER

  (Mr. PASCRELL asked and was given permission to address the House for 
1 minute.)
  Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, a five-alarm fire ripped through 240 
apartments in Edgewater, New Jersey. The fire completely destroyed the 
complex and displaced nearly 1,000 residents. You could see and smell 
the flames and ashes for miles around.
  I rise today to extend my sympathies to the families and recognize 
and honor the brave men and women of the Edgewater Volunteer Fire 
Department who responded to this devastating blaze, as well as over 500 
first responders from 35 municipalities who came to Edgewater, rescued 
victims, and battled flames that blazed for 7 hours.
  Under the leadership of Fire Chief Tom Jacobson, firefighters rescued 
people from three floors and miraculously managed to prevent any loss 
of life or severe injuries.
  Thanks to the quick response by the American Red Cross and other aid 
organizations, the more than 1,000 displaced people were able to take 
refuge in the Edgewater Community Center.
  On behalf of my constituents, Mr. Speaker, in Edgewater, I want to 
once again extend my gratitude to all the first responders who answer 
to the call every day and helped prevent further damage in this 
particular travesty.

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