16 Displaced After Fire Rips Through Rowhome In Norristown
NORRISTOWN, Pa. (CBS) -- More than a dozen people were forced from their homes and out into the cold after fire tore through a rowhome in Norristown, Montgomery County.
Flames broke out around 11:30 p.m. Sunday along the 1200 block of Powell Street.
Firefighters arrived to heavy flames shooting from the second floor of the three story building that officials say houses three apartment units. Crews began battling the fire, as well as the freezing temperatures.
"The cold weather didn't hamper our efforts, but it certainly wasn't a help either," said Fire Chief Tom O'Donnell. "Obviously, once water is used, it starts to freeze, and right now we're dealing with slippery sidewalk and road conditions and frozen water lines, fire hydrants, ladders. Right now, everything is starting to freeze up."
O'Donnell said two people safely evacuated the home from the third floor of the property onto a second floor roof.
Firefighters were able to bring the blaze under control.
One firefighter was treated on scene for a minor injury.
There were no reports of any other injuries.
The American Red Cross was assisting 16 people who were displaced by the blaze.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
