Walden, NY (July 29, 2026) – Five firefighters were hurt after a fire caused heavy damage to the Coldenham Fire House on Coldenham Road in Walden on Tuesday, July 28. The fire was brought under control, but the station building and several department vehicles sustained extensive damage.
The five firefighters were evaluated for minor injuries and smoke inhalation at Garnet Health Medical Center and Montefiore St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital. All were treated and later released. No additional information has been confirmed about how the fire started or the full extent of the property damage.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the fire, and more details will be released as soon as they become available.
We are thinking of the injured firefighters.
Why Smoke Inhalation Is Common During Structure Fires
Smoke inhalation is one of the most common health concerns during structure fires, even when burns are not present. Breathing in smoke can expose people to toxic gases, hot air, and tiny particles that may irritate the lungs and reduce oxygen levels. Symptoms may include coughing, shortness of breath, dizziness, headaches, or throat irritation, and some effects may not appear immediately.
Medical evaluations after a fire help determine whether smoke exposure has affected a person’s breathing or overall health. Doctors may monitor oxygen levels, perform imaging tests when needed, and provide treatment based on the severity of exposure. Recovery depends on several factors, including the amount of smoke inhaled, the length of exposure, and a person’s underlying health.
