New Bedford Guide Your Guide to New Bedford and South Coast, MA
“At 1423 the New Bedford Fire Department received multiple 911 calls for a structure fire at 213 Weld St.
Engine 1, Engine 7, Engine 8, Ladder 1, Ladder 4, Command Units 1 and 2 were dispatched to the call. On arrival Engine 7 reported heavy fire venting from a first floor window with extension to the building next door and multiple people hanging out of the third floor apartment windows.
An additional fire company, Engine 9, was dispatched to assist with manpower. As the fire was knocked back on the exposure, ground ladders were being placed to aid in the rescue. The occupants were able to be directed to another exit point where they could safely exit with firefighters assisting. Crews advanced into the first floor apartment to extinguish the fire preventing further extension throughout the building.
The quick actions of the crews also limited fire damage to the three family home just feet away, preventing spread to the interior of that home. There were two occupants home on the first floor and three on the third floor at the time of the fire.
NB EMS transported two occupants from the third floor residence for smoke inhalation. There were two dogs and other pets rescued from the building. In total eleven residents were displaced and are being assisted by the American Red Cross. NB EMA , NBPD, and NB Animal Control were all on scene, assisting with the efforts.
New Bedford Fire Investigators were dispatched and the fire remains under investigation at this time. The home was protected by working smoke alarms.”-New Bedford Fire Department.
All photos by Carlos Pimental Felix and Cheryl Westgate Chace:
