GOLDENS BRIDGE, N.Y. - The Golden’s Bridge Fire Department responded to a brush fire in a wooded area across the tracks from the west commuter lot at the Golden’s Bridge Metro-North train station on the morning of April 8.
Firefighters contained the blaze by saturating the perimeter to create a barrier and prevent it from spreading, while another team worked to extinguish the flames. Crews remained on scene for about two hours, using rakes and specialized tools to check for lingering embers and hot spots to reduce the risk of reignition.
Upon arrival, officials determined the fire would need to be attacked in close proximity to the train tracks. As a result, the officer in charge contacted 60 Control, the Westchester County fire dispatch center, and requested that Metro-North shut down power to the tracks to ensure firefighter safety.
Train service was halted for about an hour between the Golden’s Bridge and Purdys stations. Fire officials noted the situation could have been more disruptive had it occurred during rush hour.
Because the fire was on Metropolitan Transportation Authority property, MTA Police and members of the MTA Fire Brigade also responded. The Golden’s Bridge Fire Department requested mutual aid from the Croton Falls Fire Department for additional water and manpower.
Fire Chief Albert Melillo said a key factor in the quick containment was that someone promptly called 911 after noticing smoke.
“Everyone should be aware that it’s brush fire season. Sometimes you won’t see flames when a fire first ignites,” Melillo said. “If you see smoldering vegetation or smoke rising from wooded areas, it’s important to call 911 immediately. A rapid response can mean the difference between a small fire and a multi-acre blaze that threatens lives, homes, and natural resources. The person who made that call played a vital role in this positive outcome.”
Melillo used the incident to emphasize the heightened risk of brush fires during the spring, particularly in wooded communities such as Lewisboro, Somers, North Salem, Croton Falls, and Bedford.
Dry leaves and brush left over from the fall, combined with limited green vegetation, warmer temperatures, and gusty winds, create ideal conditions for fires, he said.
“Think of last year’s dried grass and leaves as kindling,” Melillo explained. “When combined with wind, lightning, and dry conditions, fires can ignite easily and spread quickly. Human carelessness also plays a role.”
He warned that everyday activities—such as refueling lawn equipment or using charcoal and gas grills—can spark dangerous fires if proper precautions aren’t taken.
“All it takes is a single spark,” Melillo said.
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has issued a statewide burn ban from March 16 through May 14, 2026. In Westchester County, however, open burning of any kind is prohibited year-round, including the burning of leaves, branches, construction materials, and garbage.
The DEC also advises residents to dispose of fireplace and wood stove ashes in sealed metal containers and to use caution when operating grills and fire pits. Using dry, seasoned hardwoods such as maple or oak can help reduce the risk of flying embers, and residents should avoid outdoor burning altogether during windy conditions.
Melillo also encouraged residents to follow guidance from the Northeast Forest Fire Protection Commission, including clearing leaves and debris from gutters, eaves, and porches, and avoiding the buildup of combustible materials beneath decks and patios.
“Being vigilant, practicing good safety habits, and reporting anything suspicious to 911 can go a long way in preventing fires and ensuring a quick response,” he said.
Article provided by Golden's Bridge Fire Department. For more information about the GBFD, including volunteer opportunities, visit www.goldensbridgefd.org.
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