On February 28, 2014 at approximately 20:00 hours the Readington Vol Fire Company was dispatched to 71 Hillcrest Road on Fire Box 2252 Level 3 for the reported working fire in the upstairs bathroom. The full box was dispatched bringing Whitehouse Fire Company full response, Somerset County North Branch Fire for their RIC and Whitehouse Rescue Squad. While units were responding Hunterdon County Communications updated everyone that Readington PD was on scene confirming a working fire with smoke showing. Smoke was visible from the Station which is right up the hill from the house. Squad 32 went in service within 4 minutes of dispatch and on scene attempting to hit the fire with a water can. Patrol advised a hose line would be needed so the crew of 4 on Squad 32 stretched a 1.75 handline to the attic/third floor of the structure. Heavy fire was showing at the top of the stairs which interior crews quickly knocked. Tender 32 was on location supplying Squad 32 with water. Tower 32 and Engine 22-2 arrived setting up ground ladder and putting Tower 32 into service to assist with ventilation. The fire was held to the attic bathroom and bedroom. Additional Tenders were requested due to the working fire and no hydrants in the area. Deputy 32 had Command and the Fire was knocked and under control within 20 minutes. Overhaul of the rooms were done and no extension was found. 2 dogs were removed from the house turned over to the homeowners uninjured. House suffered heavy smoke damage and water damage leaving it inhabitable. Crews remained on scene for approximately 2 hours.

Units on scene: Chief 32, Deputy 32, Squad 32, Tender 32, Tower 32, Brush 32, Chief 22, Deputy 22, Engine 22-2, Ladder 22, Tender 18, Tender 33, Somerset Chief 49, Somerset Deputy 49, Rescue 49, Engine 49-8, BLS 22-52, Utility 225, Heavy Rescue 225, Readington PD, Readington Fire Official.