Aurora Fire Rescue responded to the area of 900 South Dearborn Way on a structure fire at approximately 4:12 am. Engine 8 was the first fire unit to arrive and found a three-story multi-family dwelling with active fire in a second-story apartment. AFR deployed hose lines connected to fire hydrants, located, confined, and extinguished the fire. Fire crews also searched for people and pets and found one person who sustained non-life-threatening injuries.
AFR's swift actions controlled the fire, preventing further injuries and loss of property.
One adult and two children have been displaced due to the damages caused by the fire. The American Red Cross is assisting with temporary housing for the family. No other injuries have been reported.
Smoke and toxic gases are often the leading causes of death in a fire, rather than the flames themselves. The extreme heat can make conditions unbearable and life-threatening, with temperatures reaching over 600 degrees Fahrenheit at eye level. In such situations, every second counts, as thick, black smoke can quickly fill a room, reducing visibility and making breathing difficult.
Having a fire escape plan and working on smoke detection are essential safety measures; they are life-saving tools. Smoke detectors can provide an early warning, giving you and your loved ones precious time to escape. Regularly testing smoke detectors and ensuring everyone in your household knows the escape plan can significantly improve your chances of getting out safely. By being prepared, you can empower yourself and your family to handle emergencies like fire. For more information, visit Life Safety and Fire Prevention - City of Aurora (auroragov.org)