The Attleboro Fire Department responded to 43 Peck St. on Thursday morning for a report of a smoke alarm sounding. Firefighters rescued a disoriented resident lying in bed who was unable to exit the apartment without assistance. (Photo Courtesy Attleboro Fire Department)
ATTLEBORO — Attleboro firefighters rescued a resident from a smoke-filled apartment Thursday morning after responding to what was initially reported as a smoke alarm activation.
On Nov. 5, at approximately 9:08 a.m., the Attleboro Fire Department was dispatched to 43 Peck St., a six-unit apartment building, for a report of a smoke alarm sounding. The caller told dispatch no smoke or fire was visible in the building.
First-arriving crews reported no smoke or fire showing from the exterior and entered the building to investigate. Upon entering, firefighters detected an odor of smoke and immediately began investigating further, knocking on apartment doors and evacuating residents.
When firefighters entered a first-floor apartment, they encountered heavy smoke, near-zero visibility and elevated levels of carbon monoxide. While searching the apartment, firefighters located a disoriented resident lying in bed who was unable to exit the apartment without assistance.
Firefighters quickly carried the resident from the hazardous environment and brought them to a waiting ambulance for medical evaluation and treatment.
Firefighters discovered combustible materials on top of a stove heating element in the apartment’s kitchen. Crews extinguished the remaining fire and began ventilating the building to remove smoke and carbon monoxide.
“This is a good reminder that no call in the fire service is routine,” said District Chief Michael Maitland. “What began as a standard smoke alarm activation quickly escalated into a dangerous situation involving heavy smoke, elevated carbon monoxide levels and a resident unable to escape. The quick thinking and decisive actions of these firefighters undoubtedly saved a life today.”
The City of Attleboro Building Inspector and Health Agent were requested to the scene to evaluate conditions. The building’s utilities did not need to be disconnected, and residents were able to remain in the building.
The Attleboro Fire Investigation Unit also responded to investigate the cause of the fire. While the exact cause remains under investigation, preliminary findings indicate that combustible materials left on the stove may have contributed to the fire.
Firefighters remained on scene until approximately 10:12 a.m.
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