By Harrison Pray
WEST FARGO, N.D. (Valley News Live) – A fire at a West Fargo apartment building displaced several residents and injured a child Saturday morning after an explosion was reported in a third-floor unit.
West Fargo Fire Chief Dan Fuller said crews were initially dispatched to 1354 6th St. E just after 9 a.m. for a fire alarm activation. The call was upgraded to a structure fire after someone in the building heard an explosion and smelled smoke.
“Our first arriving unit had seen heavy black smoke coming from the third floor, so they transmitted a working fire,” Fuller said.
The response brought Fargo Fire units and partner agencies including the Salvation Army, Red Cross, West Fargo Police Department, drone team and Sanford Ambulance.
Fire contained with water can
Crews were able to extinguish the fire with a water can, though they took precautions by laddering the building in case the fire spread beyond the apartment.
“We were able to put it out with a small amount of water from a water can,” Fuller said. “It was contained in the kitchen.”
The cause of the explosion and fire remains under investigation. Fuller said investigators were on scene working to determine what started the fire.
One child was injured and transported to a local hospital by family members. Several residents were displaced from the 36-unit building.
Resident used fire extinguisher
A building resident retrieved a fire extinguisher from a hallway cabinet and used it before crews arrived, which Fuller said saved property.
“It’s always important to know where your fire extinguishers are at home or the apartment building you live in,” Fuller said. “Make sure your smoke detectors are working and you’ve checked them. If you hear a smoke detector going off, call the fire department.”
Cold weather added hazards for both residents evacuating and firefighters working outside, prompting an increased alarm response to ensure adequate personnel on scene according to Fuller.
The cost of repairs has not been determined.
