An early morning fire, at the height of the most recent snowstorm, destroyed the offices and shop of the Pioneer Window Co. located at 15 Frederick Place. The facility is located across from the IHOP restaurant on Old Country Road. When the alarm was reported at 4:11 a.m. the fire was already throughout the building.
Ninety-five volunteer firefighters were on scene quickly. Hicksville firefighters were standing by in their four stations and were on scene in minutes. Six engine companies and four ladder companies were used to douse the flames. The bulk of the fire was reported out at 4:34 a.m. and overhaul operations started at 4:55 a.m. All apparatus were clear by 7 a.m.
Some extra time was required to remove several hundred feet of frozen hose. Fire departments assisting Hicksville at the scene were Levittown, E. Meadow, Bethpage and Westbury. Standing by at Hicksville’s main firehouse were units from Levittown, Jericho and Plainview fire departments.
Hicksville’s Chief of Department, Edward Korona was in command, assisted by his assistant chiefs and neighboring fire chiefs and Hicksville Fire Commissioners. The Nassau County Fire Marshal was on scene to determine the cause. The Town of Oyster Bay Building Department inspector was also on scene as were utility workers to cut gas and electric service and the Nassau County Police.
No injuries were reported. The fire department evacuation bus was used as a warming station for firefighters. The Hicksville Ladies Auxiliary were at the scene providing refreshments.
