Firefighters Rescue Man from House Fire on Staten Island

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Firefighter Christopher Pillarella from Ladder 83 risked his life to save a man from an early morning fire on Staten Island on Dec. 4, 2011.

Firefighters were called to the one story home on Utter Avenue at around 1:30 a.m., with reports of smoke in the area.

Fire filled the living room in the front of the residence, and the firefighters heard reports that there were people inside.

As the engine started stretching the hose line, Firefighter Pillarella went into the building, past the fire - using a water can to push back the flames - and down a long hallway.

There he found an unconscious man. He radioed for assistance, and the other members of his company helped carry the victim outside.

The 62-year-old man had no pulse, yet members of the engine and EMS helped revive him and he was transported to Staten Island University Hospital North in stable condition. He also sustained burns to his face and hands.

The all-hands fire was placed under control just after 2 a.m. Although he helped save the man's life, Firefighter Pillarella remained humble, "I didn't do anything any other firefighter wouldn't have done."

Fire marshals determined the fire was caused by a faulty extension cord.



Author:Emily Rahimi - PIO - FDNY