PITTSFIELD, Mass. — The Fire Department is crediting a patrol officer in saving the occupants of a Third Street home from a fire. 

 

The blaze was reported at 1 a.m. on Saturday when a police officer on patrol noted smoke coming out of 11-13 Third St. The officer woke up the tenants and was evacuating them as firefighters were being dispatched. 

 

"His quick actions likely saved lives tonight," Deputy Fire Chief Neil Meyers wrote in his report.

 

Crews on Engines 1 and 3, Car 2 and Truck 2 could see the large column of smoke as they traveled down Fenn Street. Engine 6 was then requested en route.

 

There was heavy fire on the exterior/left side of the building extending up into the attic space of the 2 1/2-story wood-frame duplex. E3 crew stretched a handline rapidly to the seat of the fire and began extinguishment. 

 

Truck 2 was assigned to begin ventilation and check for extension into the home. E1 secured a water supply to E3 and assisted E3 and E6 with fire suppression and opening up the attic. E2 was assigned as the RIT team. 

 

Salvage covers were deployed to lesson water damage to the occupants' belongings.

 

The main body of fire was knocked down within an hour and required extensive overhaul in the walls and attic space to finally put all the fire out. 

 

Damage was confined to No. 11 side of the circa 1880 building with no damage to 13. Fire estimates are not available currently. Electricity to 11 was shut off until repairs are made.

 

There were no firefighter or civilian injuries associated with the fire. All tenants found alternate housing for the night but were cleared to return in the morning by the city's Health Department. 

 

The fire is currently being investigated by the Fire Investigation Unit with early findings pointing to unknown causes.