Belleville Fire: Mattress Factory Blaze Causes Havoc

Three days after a massive blaze erupted at a mattress factory on Cortlandt Street in Belleville, New Jersey, firefighters are still working to extinguish hot spots. The weekend fire consumed an entire block and is significantly impacting the community.

Schools have remained closed for a third straight day due to the ongoing situation. Dozens of residents have been displaced, with many more forced to leave their homes as water and gas services were shut off to allow for demolition. Mayor Michael Melham confirmed that crews are scheduled to begin dismantling parts of the building soon.

Lingering smoke is a major concern for residents, with air quality being hazardous. The Department of Environmental Protection is set to begin air quality testing on Thursday, pending the passage of Wednesday's rain. While initial oxygen level tests were normal, the fire's origin is believed to be welding work, exacerbated by flammable materials like foam and helium tanks within the factory. Two firefighters were treated for smoke inhalation and exhaustion, but no other injuries were reported.