Albany, NY (WRGB) — Four people have been taken to the hospital after a large fire in Albany. At least two of them were seriously hurt.
The fire broke out around 11:45 a.m. Thursday at 241 Western Avenue and spread to 239 Western Avenue. The most damage was to 241 Western Avenue, where the fire spread inside, the chief said. However, the cocklofts of both buildings were damaged.
Two people were rescued. A third was helped down a ladder, and a fourth got out on their own.
A dog was also rescued and resuscitated, according to those at the scene.
Albany Fire Chief Joseph Gregory says crews arrived to find their work cut out for them.
“The best I can describe it is a wall of fire up the front of the building,” he said.
The fire extended into the cockloft of both buildings, the chief said.
Firefighters battling the flames also had to contend with the cold and wind—a challenge the fire chief says his crew met head-on.
“We’re a great fire department, and it just goes to show you what training does and what our firefighters can do,” he said.
No firefighters were hurt, the chief said.
The cause of the fire is under investigation. However, with the coldest air of the season moving in, Albany Mayor Kathy Sheehan reminded people to be extra careful while trying to heat their home.
“I think it’s making sure that if you’re using a space heater, that you’re doing it safely. Don’t try to warm your house with an oven,” she said. “If you really are experiencing a serious situation, you know, please call. We can find places for people to be warm.”
Meantime, neighbors have stepped up to offer victims things like warmth, chargers and pet crates.
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