A late-night house fire in St. Paul’s Baker-Annapolis neighborhood left five people displaced and sent one person to a hospital for evaluation early Tuesday after flames tore through a two-story home on Sidney Street East. Fire crews arrived shortly after midnight to find flames visible at the back of the structure. The home sustained significant damage, and city crews contacted the American Red Cross to help the household with immediate needs.
Deputy Chief Jamie Smith told KSTP that firefighters “saw flames coming from the back of the home” and that the blaze was affecting both the first and second floors. Crews knocked down the main fire, then stayed on scene to search for lingering hot spots.
All five occupants, including four adults and one child, evacuated the building and were accounted for at the scene. One person was later taken to a hospital for evaluation, according to KSTP. The department reported no injuries, and investigators are working to determine what sparked the overnight blaze.
Red Cross steps in for displaced family
The American Red Cross was called to assist the displaced household. The organization typically provides temporary shelter, meals and recovery guidance in the aftermath of home fires, according to the American Red Cross.
Plan and practice an escape
St. Paul fire officials reminded neighbors to create and practice a home fire escape plan. Safety guidance from the National Fire Protection Association advises working smoke alarms on every level of the home and at least two ways out of every room. Additional planning resources are available from the NFPA.
