Photo: Getty Images
The American Red Cross is providing assistance to seven people following a fire at a three-story home on Congress Street in Cohoes. The fire occurred on Wednesday (March 12) and required the efforts of firefighters from Cohoes, Watervliet Arsenal, and Green Island to bring it under control. Crews arrived at the scene to find heavy smoke and flames pouring from the building, which was fully occupied at the time. Fortunately, all residents, including five adults and two children, were able to escape without injury.
A firefighter sustained an ankle injury after falling down stairs and was taken to the hospital with minor injuries. The fire began at the rear of the building, and its cause is currently under investigation. Despite challenges with water supply due to hydrant issues, the firefighters managed to contain the blaze after several hours.
The building, which suffered significant damage, is expected to be condemned and demolished due to a section of the roof collapsing. The Red Cross is offering financial assistance, health services, and comfort kits to those displaced by the fire. The organization also provided stuffed animals for the children affected.
According to the Times Union, the fire department rescued a dog from the second floor and attempted to locate a rabbit reported on the third floor. News10 reported that the building will be boarded up and likely demolished.