Hickory firefighters respond to structure fire at apartment building
At approximately 9:22 Wednesday morning, Hickory firefighters were dispatched to a structure fire located at 225 9th Ave NW. While enroute, firefighters received information that one occupant was still inside the apartment. On arrival, firefighters reported smoke and fire coming from the multi-story apartment building. They confirmed that one occupant was on the second floor and trapped. Using ladders, firefighters worked to evacuate the residents and called for a second alarm to bring additional units to assist with the incident. At 9:35 a.m., the resident was reported safely out of the burning apartment and was transported to a local hospital for minor abrasions and smoke inhalation.
Hickory Fire Department responded with three engines, two ladders, a rescue truck, two command units, and additional units to assist including Catawba County EMS.
The fire was extinguished and firefighters worked to remove smoke from the structure and to check the neighboring apartments for damage. Fire damages were contained to the one apartment. The occupant told fire investigators that the smoke alarm alerted him to the fire. He attempted to go downstairs to the exit, but had to go back to his room. Once in the room, he closed the door to keep the smoke out and went to the window to escape.
Fire Investigators determined the fire was electrical and was caused by a faulty extension cord.
Hickory firefighters want to remind the public that working smoke alarms are so important. Also, in this case, a closed door kept the smoke out of the room and gave the occupant valuable time to escape. This fire is a good example of how a working smoke alarm can alert occupants; so, take a few minutes to test your alarms to ensure they are working properly. If you need assistance or don’t have alarms, contact your local fire department to see if they have a free alarm program.