On Aug. 9, a three-alarm fire swept through three homes in Paterson, N.J. At 0630 HRS, the Paterson Fire Department was dispatched to 25 Highland Ave. for a report of a structure fire with flames extending to similar structures on both sides. The first-due units found heavy fire on the second and third floors of a three-story dwelling. A second alarm was quickly transmitted as firefighters worked to stop the extension. A tower ladder, a ladder pipe, a deck gun, along with numerous handlines went into operation as a third alarm was transmitted. An aggressive attack helped limit extension into the third structure. More than 20 people lost their homes and most of their belongings. Fortunately, there were no serious injuries. The fire was under control within two hours, and although the fire is not considered suspicious, it is under investigation.