On Saturday night at 22:36 hrs, the Bergenfield Fire Department was requested to 54 Carnation St. for a report of smoke in the basement. Deputy Chief Gomez (D2) was first to arrive on scene. He entered the house and was met by a light smoke condition on the first floor and could see a little heavier smoke in the basement. After a quick check he found no fire.
Captain Lorz and his crew off of the Ladder and Lt. Lodato with his crew off the Rescue checked the entire basement. They were able to locate a sump pump under the washer and dryer. The motor had seized due to debris getting stuck in the motor. The rubber coating over the top of the motor was melting, which was causing the smoke condition. Units operated on scene for 60 minutes.