Syracuse Firefighters Respond to 710 Lodi St

SYRACUSE, N.Y. – On January 12th, 2023, at 1:25 p.m., Syracuse firefighters were alerted by the 911 Center to a possible fire in a high-rise type structure at 710 Lodi St. Firefighters from Station 9 (Shuart Ave) arrived in three minutes to find a 12-story, multiple occupancy, high-rise type apartment building. There were reports as units arrived on the scene of heavy smoke from a 5th-floor window. Firefighters arriving on the 5th floor found heavy smoke and heat, signs of a working fire. Teams of firefighters began connecting hoses to outlets in the stairwell while other teams started a search of the fire apartment. Working in zero visibility, firefighters moved a hose line into place to extinguish the flames.

Firefighters were able to confine the flames to the kitchen, where the fire originated. The fire apartment also sustained smoke and water damage. However, damage was limited to the fire apartment and a vacant apartment on the floor below. Some residents were able to shelter in place, remaining out of danger. Others were able to evacuate using the stairs. Occupants of apartments on the upper floors of the building were able to return to their homes once firefighters had removed smoke and toxic gases from the upper floors.

Two residents suffered injuries as a result of the fire. One patient was transported by Syracuse Fire Dept. Ambulance for smoke inhalation. AMR was also on scene and transported a patient suffering from a medical issue. Both patients were taken to local hospitals. Their condition is not currently known.

Fires in High Rise buildings are challenging to fight and often require special tactics. A significant hurdle is moving firefighters and firefighting equipment to the upper floors of the building. Firefighters utilize elevators and building stairwells, which can often be complicated by residents trying to evacuate. A tremendous amount of coordination and effort goes into an operation like this. Firefighters frequently train for this type of scenario. Firefighters also often tour high occupancy structures such as this one to familiarize themselves with building layouts, stairway locations, and special hazards, all to be prepared when an emergency occurs.

In total, 43 firefighters responded to the fire, including command and support staff. Firefighters remained on the scene, assisting residents back to their apartments. The Red Cross was on the scene helping one displaced resident. The fire is under investigation by Syracuse Fire Investigators. No injuries to firefighters were reported. We thank our partners at the 911 Center, Syracuse Police, AMR, National Grid, and the American Red Cross.