Pleasant Valley Fire District firefighters and EMTs were called into action shortly after midnight on Thursday, November 21st.

A car traveling east on Drake Road lost control and left the roadway striking a tree. The driver was able to escape the vehicle, which then burst into flames. Firefighters arrived to find an intense car fire with flames spreading into the woods. Concerned about the extremely dry conditions Pleasant Valley command requested additional tanker resources to the scene.

Pleasant Valley EMTs quickly assessed the driver on scene and began transport. Due to the severity of the injuries, a Paramedic was requested to intercept the ambulance. Arlington Engine 14 met Pleasant Valley Ambulance and provided advanced life care support. The patient was transported to a local hospital for further treatment.

Pleasant Valley firefighters quickly worked to contain the brush fire, which had spread into the woods on both sides of the road burning approximately ½ acre. The car fire was extinguished, however magnesium components in the burning vehicle required a large amount of water to cool.

A utility pole near the vehicle was burned and Central Hudson representatives slated it for replacement. The intense fire also caused damage to the road surface and the Pleasant Valley Highway Department was notified. All fire units were back in service by 2:30am.

The Pleasant Valley Fire District would like to thank the New York State Police, Arlington Fire District, Central Hudson Gas and Electric Corporation, Matt’s Auto Body, and Dutchess County Department of Emergency Response Dispatchers for their assistance during the incident.

Volunteers are always needed to be part of our team. Stop by our firehouses on Monday evenings at 6:30 pm or visit the “Join PVFD” section at PVFDNY.org.