Philly Crews Rescue Residents, Pets From Apt. Fire
Source The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
Firefighters safely evacuated a large three-story apartment building in East Liberty this morning after a three-alarm fire broke out.
Assistant fire Chief Thomas Cook said the building at the corner of North Negley Avenue and East Liberty Boulevard was emptied by about 7 a.m.
"There were reports of a 14-year-old missing off the second floor," he said. "We commenced an aggressive search, no one was located. We're pretty sure we have everyone."
Heavy smoke permeated the building, making it difficult for firefighters to get to the basement, where the fire started.
"Once we got access, it was a pretty routine fire for us," Cook said.
Firefighters also rescued four or five cats from the building. A few were seen getting oxygen treatments from paramedics and being reunited with grateful owners.
"Once were sure about the human safety, then we can start worrying about the pets as well," Cook said.
Copyright 2012 - The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
McClatchy-Tribune News Service
