On Thursday, November 14, 2024, at around 6:15 p.m., a fire broke out at the Albany Therapeutic Riding Center in Guilderland, New York. The fire severely damaged a large barn that housed essential equipment, including an ATV and lawn mower. Seven fire departments responded, but the damage is estimated to be at least $50,000. No injuries were reported, and all animals, including the horses and the barn cat, were unharmed. Sessions at the center are temporarily closed while the cause of the fire is under investigation.


Planck Vision Systems: Fire Destroys Barn at Albany Therapeutic Riding Center, $50,000 Loss

NEWS

A fire broke out at the Albany Therapeutic Riding Center in Guilderland, New York, on Thursday, November 14, 2024, around 6:15 p.m. The blaze completely destroyed a large barn that stored critical equipment, including an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) and a lawn mower. The fire spread quickly, and by the time firefighters arrived, it had already caused significant damage.

Seven fire departments responded to the scene, with the Guilderland Center Fire Department noting that heavy machinery was required to break apart the barn’s structure and remove hay that was fueling the flames. According to Executive Director Taylor Huntley, the response time from the first responders was remarkable, with firefighters arriving on-site “very, very quickly.”

Fortunately, no humans, horses, or other animals, including the barn’s resident cat Momo, were injured. However, the damage to the barn and equipment is estimated to total at least $50,000. As a result, the therapy center has had to suspend riding sessions temporarily while the investigation into the fire’s cause continues. A Guilderland fire inspector was on the scene the following morning to assist in determining the origin of the fire.

This incident underscores the importance of early fire detection systems. Traditional fire alarms can only notify authorities after smoke or flames become visible, meaning by the time the fire is detected, substantial damage may already be done. Planck Vision TNC thermal imaging cameras offer a more proactive approach by detecting abnormal heat signatures long before a blaze ignites.

These cameras monitor for irregular heat conditions and can alert property owners of potential fire hazards, allowing for faster intervention and reducing the risk of catastrophic losses. In cases like the Albany Therapeutic Riding Center fire, early detection might have helped prevent the destruction of valuable equipment and the disruption of vital services for people with disabilities.

source: timesunion.com


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