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Bernardsville Today
By the People, for the People
Smoke Alarm Wakes Resident to House Fire in Basking Ridge
The fire broke out in the kitchen during early morning hours, but no injuries were reported.
Published on Mar. 1, 2026
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A smoke alarm woke up a sleeping resident to a fire in their Liberty Corner home in Basking Ridge, New Jersey, on Friday morning. The homeowner tried to use a fire extinguisher but was unable to put the fire out, which appears to have started in the kitchen. No injuries were reported, but the house is currently uninhabitable.
Why it matters
House fires can be devastating, but this incident highlights the importance of working smoke alarms in homes, which can provide early warning and potentially save lives. The quick response of the local fire departments also helped to contain the damage.
The details
According to police, the fire broke out around 3:35 a.m. on Knollcroft Road. The homeowner woke up to the fire alarm and attempted to extinguish the flames, but was unsuccessful. The Liberty Corner Fire Company, Veterans Affairs Fire Department, and Bernardsville Fire Co. No. 1 & First Aid Squad responded and were able to put out the fire, which appears to have started from burnt food in the toaster. The fire marshal will investigate the exact cause.
- The fire was reported at around 3:35 a.m. on Friday, February 20, 2026.
The players
Bernards Township Police Sgt. Steven Matthews
Provided details about the incident to Patch.com.
Liberty Corner Fire Company
One of the fire departments that responded to the house fire.
Veterans Affairs Fire Department
One of the fire departments that responded to the house fire.
Bernardsville Fire Co. No. 1 & First Aid Squad
One of the fire departments that responded to the house fire.
What’s next
The fire marshal will investigate the exact cause of the fire.
The takeaway
This incident underscores the importance of working smoke alarms in homes, which can provide early warning and potentially save lives in the event of a fire. The quick response of the local fire departments also helped to contain the damage and prevent any injuries.
