On Thursday, February 17 at approximately 1513 the Essex Junction Fire Department and Essex Town Fire Department were dispatched to a laundromat on Pearl Street in the Village of Essex Junction for a fire in the building that was reportedly spreading.

Lieutenant Rivers was on the air in Car 9 working on a knox box issue nearby and responded directly to the scene. Upon arrival Lieutenant Rivers noted smoke showing from the front door of the laundromat.

Engine 7 and Ladder 3 responded and arrived on the scene, making entry into the building with an attack line. Fire was found to be contained to a single dryer unit and was quickly extinguished. Personnel worked with members of Essex Fire checking for extension and ventilating the building. Personnel operated on the scene for approximately one and a half hours before turning the building back over to the owner. The cause of the fire is believed to be mechanical in nature, but is under investigation.