Fairfield Fire Department battles fire in snowy conditions 

On 01/15/2009 at 03:23 AM  the Fairfield Fire Department was dispatched to a report of an automatic fire alarm at 580 POST RD, the LA SALSA FRESH MEXICAN RESTAURANT in FAIRFIELD, CT 06824.

Upon arrival at 03:29 AM, Engine 1 and Car 3 found heavy smoke coming from the cooking ventilation system on the roof. Personnel performed an exterior survey of the building found heavy smoke conditions inside of building. Car 3 assumed command, and called for an additional ladder and engine company to respond to the scene. E1 forced entry into the building and advance a 1 3/4" hose line to attack the fire on the first floor. Engine 1 reported the interior smoke conditions provided zero visibility and personnel were forced to use thermal imaging cameras to locate the fire inside the building. Ladder 1 personnel forced entry and searched the 2nd floor areas for possible victims - light smoke conditions found upstairs and there did not appear to be any fire extension to the 2^nd floor. Engine 2 layed a 5” hydrant supply line across the Post Road closing the road for approx 1 hour – Fairfield Police requested to scene due to road closure. Gas company requested to scene to shut down utilities. Fire Marshall called to scene for investigation. Engine 1 reported main body of fire located low on 1^st. Engine 2 stretched backup line and was reassigned to search for basement access and possible fire. Ladder 2 assigned to place ground ladders for roof access and horizontal ventilation. Engine 4 assigned RIT Safety and positioned on A side of building. Engine 1 reported fire controlled with hose line, horizontal ventilation effective. Weather conditions did not impact operations. 

Fire Cause is undetermined/under investigation by Fire Marshall’s office.