WFD Puts Out Fire At 198 Front Street

Two women and three young boys escaped a fire that came up through the floor of their second story apartment at 198 Front St. Friday at about 5 p.m. 

Woonsocket Firefighters responded, finding the women and children outside the building, and put out the fire within about an hour, said Deputy Fire Chief Paul Shatraw. He said that as they fought the fire, cold conditions created ice that was a challenge, but the firefighters adapted well.

The fire began between the first and second floors, Shatraw said. He said the cause is under investigation.

While they fought it and inspected the building for hot spots, Bernon Street was blocked off until abut 6:45 p.m. from Front Street to Greene Street.

Ida Gardner, who lived in the second floor apartment with her grandsons and daughter, said she was in her bedroom when she smelled smoke. She went into the living room, she said, saw smoke and flames coming out of the floor, got everyone out. 

"Running downstairs with three kids. It was hard," Gardner said. 

No one was injured by the fire, but, "They just don't have anything for the kids," said Desiree Knight, a friend of the family. The boys are 5, 2 and 1-years old.

Another tenant lived in the 5-unit building, Shatraw said, but was not present during the fire.

Anyone interested in helping the family can contact Marcos Andano at 401-516-2551, or bring donations to 37 Paradis Ave.