2 Hospitalized After Morning House Fire In Morris Plains

MORRIS PLAINS, NJ — Two people were hospitalized with burn injuries after a house fire in Morris Plains on Tuesday morning, officials reported.

The cause of the kitchen fire is still under official investigation by the police, according to the Mount Tabor Volunteer Fire Department.

The fire at 52 Averell Drive, in Morris Plains, was reported at 10:33 a.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 27, according to officials. The fire had already been extinguished when police and fire officials arrived, but it was confirmed that one victim had extensive burns and a second victim had burn injuries as well.

According to police, the victim with extensive burns was flown to RWJ Barnabas Health for treatment, while the other victim was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment of their injuries.

"The damage to the home was minimal and we wish the victims a speedy recovering," fire officials said.

Mount Tabor Chief 1, Engine 13, Engine 15, Cedar Knolls Chief 1, Cedar Knolls Engine 34, Morris Plains Truck 1, Parsippany - Troy Hills Fire 1, County EMS 97, St. Clares ALS, Atlantic ALS, Parsippany Police Department and the Morris County Sheriffs were on scene.

According to police and the local fire department, this incident emphasizes the importance of Mutual Aid agreements and mutual respect between neighboring emergency response companies.

A fire or emergency can occur at any time and in any location, and manpower is required to treat the scene safely and effectively.

"We are grateful to our mutual aid partners who provided assistance at today's incident, and every time that we call them. Thank you for your service and for your commitment to help those in need," Mount Tabor Volunteer Fire Department said.