Assemblyman Eichenstein Honors Chaveirim Volunteer Yechiel Kraut After Dryer Fire Rescue

Assemblyman Simcha Eichenstein today recognized Boro Park Chaveirim member Yechiel Kraut for his quick action in stopping a dryer fire on East Seventh Street shortly before Shabbos.

The volunteer rushed to the home after the homeowner called Chaveirim for help. He used a fire extinguisher to knock down the flames while they were still contained, preventing the fire from spreading through the house. FDNY arrived soon after, secured the area, and confirmed the home was safe.

In a statement to BoroPark24, Assemblyman Eichenstein said: "Today I presented Yechiel with a Citation commending him on his bravery and his presence of mind in quickly extinguishing the fire at a private home, putting the safety of others before his own. As a member of Chaverim, he is truly an exemplary citizen whose selfless act no doubt saved an innocent family from disaster. This is what a real hero looks like.

Chaveirim coordinator Shloime Fleishman spoke with BoroPark24 after today’s event, praising the volunteer: “His heroic action is a powerful reminder of what our members stand for — always ready to help and protect others. This incident may not have been a typical call, but that’s exactly what we do: we jump into action whenever someone needs assistance.”

“I was driving nearby with my child when the call came in about smoke,” the member told BoroPark24. "I went inside and saw small flames, so I quickly made sure everyone was out, then rushed to my car to grab my fire extinguisher. By the time I came back, the flames were already huge. It was really a matter of being in the right place at the right time, responding fast and doing what had to be done. It’s a zechus, and it’s not about me; it’s about the entire Chaveirim team, always prepared at all times for every kind of situation.”

The award from Eichenstein came as a public thank you to the volunteer whose fast thinking protected a family and their home.

photos: Duvid Jaroslawicz