A hero firefighter helped avert a tragedy in Passaic on Saturday morning.

George Martinez was on his way home when he saw multiple homes on fire on Oak Street.

He then helped rescue several people, including children, despite having no safety gear.

Passaic Fire Chief Patrick Trentacost says they were lucky that Martinez was in the right place at the right time.

“He has no gear on, but his instincts kicked in. He did a great job getting children out, the elderly out.  And the coordination with PD – tremendous job,” he says.

The Red Cross says 39 people from 15 families were displaced. Only minor injuries were reported.