Fires leaves 4 injured and 9 homes damaged in West Philly
Three children, including one child who jumped to escape the flames and smoke, and one adult were hurt on the 100 block of South 57th Street near Chestnut Street.
A wind-whipped fire damaged nine West Philadelphia homes and left one adult and three children injured — including one child who jumped to escape the flames and smoke — early Wednesday afternoon, a fire department spokesperson said.
Around 1:30 p.m., the blaze was reported on the 100 block of South 57th Street near Chestnut Street, said Philadelphia Fire Department spokesperson Rachel Cunningham.
The first firefighters arriving at the scene reported heavy fire on the first floor and heavy smoke on the second floor of a two-story rowhouse, Cunningham said.
Because of high winds, the fire spread to eight other homes, Cunningham said. More than 75 fire department personnel responded to the blaze.
“In the course of the incident, one child jumped from the home and was injured. Two other children and one adult woman were also injured,” Cunningham said.
All four were treated at the scene and then transported to hospitals.
At least 19 people were displaced from their homes because of the fire, which was declared under control at 2:50 p.m.
The Red Cross responded to the scene and assisted 12 displaced residents, a spokesperson for the American Red Cross Southeastern Pennsylvania Region said.
The Philadelphia Fire Marshal’s Office was working to determine the origin and cause of the fire.
“We want to take this opportunity to remind everyone how dangerous fire can become when we have high winds. Please refrain from intentionally burning anything and make sure your space heaters are at least three feet from any furniture, curtains, or anything else which might be flammable,” Cunningham said.
Philadelphia residents can request free smoke alarms for their homes by calling 311 to request them, Cunningham said. Members of the department will come install them.