On June 10, 2015, Cranston firefighters responded to Florida Avenue for a house fire with reports of people trapped. Engine 3 was first to arrive and found heavy fire showing from the front windows of the top floor of an occupied three-decker. Members of the Cranston Police Department were on scene telling firefighters that a woman might still be on the top floor. Engine 3 stretched up to the third floor and was joined by members of Ladder 3, Engine 2 and Special Hazards. As crews began their searches, conditions rapidly deteriorated and personnel were ordered out. Before everyone could get through the one door to escape, the remainder of the apartment flashed over. The last firefighter out received burns to his neck and shoulders and was transported to RIH. Defensive operations were begun and the heavy fire was pushed back. Crews once again entered the house and performed extensive overhaul operations. The woman reported to be trapped on the third floor was not at home at the time of the fire. In addition to the burned firefighter, two other firefighters were transported to RIH with injuries. All of the injured members were released from the hospital and have since returned to work.
– Fire News photos by Tom Carmody and Ken LaBelle
