Firefighter Hurt in House Fire on Taft Rd in River Edge, NJ

River Edge, NJ (August 31, 2026) – A firefighter was treated for dehydration after a suspected electrical fire at a vacant home under renovation on Taft Road near Howland Avenue in River Edge.

The fire began around 9:30 a.m. Sunday, August 30, in the rear of the roughly 75-year-old ranch-style house. The property was reportedly vacant while renovation work was underway.

The River Edge Fire and mutual aid crews assisted with the response. Several lithium-ion batteries were present inside the house, which prompted a hazardous materials team to assist with their safe removal and handling.

The firefighter was treated at Hackensack University Medical Center and was expected to recover. 

The cause of the fire remains under investigation. 

We hope for the firefighter's continued recovery.

What Workers' Compensation Benefits May Apply to a Firefighter in River Edge, NJ?

New Jersey workers' compensation generally provides medical treatment and disability benefits for injuries or illnesses arising from employment. The law also contains specific provisions for volunteer firefighters.

Under New Jersey law, qualifying volunteer firefighters injured while performing their duties are covered by workers' compensation and are not subject to the ordinary seven-day waiting period for compensation.

That distinction can matter when a firefighter receives medical treatment after performing emergency duties. For a firefighter who experiences a work-related medical problem during fire suppression duties, it is important to document when and how the condition developed to help establish the connection to the work.

New Jersey workers' compensation may cover necessary and reasonable medical treatment for a work-related injury. Depending on the circumstances, benefits can also include temporary disability or permanent disability compensation.

Benefits may also address lost wages when a qualifying work-related condition prevents a firefighter from performing their regular duties. Temporary disability payments may apply during a period of recovery, while permanent disability benefits may be available when an injury results in lasting impairment. The specific amount and duration can depend on the nature and extent of the disability.

Firefighters may also experience injuries or illnesses related to smoke, heat, chemicals, falls, or other hazards encountered while performing emergency duties. Proper medical records and employment documentation can help establish the connection between the condition and the firefighter's work.

When a claim is disputed, the worker may pursue an informal hearing or file a formal Claim Petition with the Division of Workers' Compensation. A workers' compensation lawyer can review the work-related facts and explain whether workers' compensation or other legal options may apply.

If you are an emergency responder and have been injured while on duty, our team can help you understand the details of these types of cases. At Metro Law, we work with injured people across New Jersey to help them understand their options and next steps after being involved in an accident. 

You can call Metro Law at (800) 469-6476 for information about your legal options. We are here to review your case and help you move forward.