2 Firefighters Escape Close Call in Belle Harbor - MYFOXNY.COM

Two of New York City’s finest escaped from being trapped in a burning building along with residents in Belle Harbor, Queens.

According to the FDNY, the fire started in the basement of the three-story building on the top floors. Many residents lost everything they owned as firefighters worked to get this fire out. Two of the firefighters had to scramble to save their own lives.

“I lost everything, a new recliner and new clothes," said one resident who escaped the blaze. The fire was unforgiving and left residents with nothing.

"They knocked on the door and told me to leave and I came downstairs,” said Daniel Dowd lives in an apartment on the top floor. On his way out, Dowd only had time to grab his cat. Lou Romas, a friend of Dowd’s, gave him the clothes he has on now. 

“All he had was his shirt and pants on and all she has is pajamas,” said Romas. “My girlfriend packed clothes for him."

The flames spread up the walls inside the burning building and two firefighters, who were looking for possible victims, became trapped.

"While we were conducting operations, there was a partial collapse on a first floor and he gave a may-day. He was quickly recovered by the members’ right there," said the fire chief at the scene.

The second firefighter used a service rope and repelled out of a window.

"Fire is a dangerous thing,” said the chief. “You never know when a fire is going to flash forward."

The local Red Cross arrived to offer aid. 

"This is a friend, people who need help,” said Lomas. “I know how they must feel. They're good friends of mine, so you have to help out."

The fire is still under investigation. According to the FDNY fire started in the boiler room and is does not seem to be suspicious.