Fire companies battle blaze at Bedford kennel

BEDFORD, N.Y. - An early-morning fire at Northwind Kennels on Old Post Road drew a large, coordinated response from Bedford and surrounding fire departments on Friday, Dec. 12.

At approximately 5:42 a.m., Bedford Fire Department crews were dispatched to reports of a structure fire at the kennel. The first arriving unit, Car 2043, confirmed a working fire visible from the street, prompting an immediate request for additional resources. Car 2041 established command, while other command officers coordinated on-scene operations.

Firefighters encountered challenging conditions upon arrival, with heavy fire in the rear and roof of one of the kennel buildings. Limited access along the narrow driveway restricted apparatus placement, allowing only Engine 110 to advance a supply line up to the structure. Despite these obstacles, crews quickly began fire suppression while simultaneously working to rescue and relocate multiple dogs housed inside the building.

Animal control officers from Bedford and Mount Kisco responded to assist with the safe handling and relocation of the animals. Fire officials reported that all animals were believed to be accounted for at the scene.

Because the property lies within Bedford’s pressurized hydrant district, firefighters were able to secure a reliable water supply from a hydrant approximately 400 feet away. Additional water support was provided by Bedford Hills, Banksville and Katonah units, with tankers from Croton Falls and Katonah placed on standby as a precaution. Engine 108 also established an open water source nearby.

Four hose lines were deployed, and the fire was brought under control in about one hour. A second alarm was later transmitted to bring in additional personnel from South Salem, Armonk, Chappaqua and North White Plains to assist with extensive overhaul and cleanup operations.

Fire officials expressed appreciation to neighboring departments for fire coverage, scene support and equipment rehabilitation, as well as to Vista EMS for handling a separate medical call during the incident.

The fire remains under investigation by the Westchester County Cause and Origin Team. Preliminary indications suggest the blaze may have been caused by a dryer machine.

Multiple Bedford units responded to the scene, along with extensive mutual aid from fire departments, EMS agencies and support services across northern Westchester.

In addition to the Bedford Fire Department, mutual aid and support during the incident were provided by the Bedford Hills Fire Department, Banksville Fire Department, Mount Kisco Fire Department, Katonah Fire Department, Armonk Fire Department and EMS, Pound Ridge Fire Department, Chappaqua Fire Department, South Salem Fire Department, North White Plains Fire Department, Croton Falls Fire Department, Vista EMS, Westchester EMS and KBHVAC.