A deadly afternoon fire tore through a stretch of North Philadelphia rowhomes on Monday, killing one person and forcing families from their houses as flames jumped from building to building. The blaze erupted on the 3600 block of North Percy Street shortly before 1 p.m., and crews worked to contain fire that had already begun spreading into neighboring properties.
What crews found
According to CBS Philadelphia, firefighters arrived to find heavy flames on the first floor of a two-story rowhouse. The fire quickly extended to five adjacent homes, prompting a large response of more than 75 members from the department. Officials said the blaze was brought under control at 1:36 p.m.
Red Cross and recovery support
The American Red Cross Southeastern Pennsylvania says its Disaster Action Team and the Red Cross House step in after home fires to offer short-term shelter, meals and casework for people who suddenly find themselves without a place to stay. That help typically includes emergency financial assistance along with referrals to agencies that can support longer-term housing needs.
Impact and investigation
Per CBS Philadelphia, the Red Cross is now assisting seven families, a total of 25 people, as a result of the North Percy Street blaze. A dog was rescued from the home where the fire started, and officials reported no other people were injured. The Fire Marshal's Office has opened an investigation into what sparked the deadly fire.
Safety reminders
Attached rowhomes can allow fire to move quickly from one unit to the next, so preparation matters. Residents are urged to test smoke alarms every month, practice a home fire escape plan that gets everyone out in about two minutes and call 911 immediately if they see flames, according to guidance from the American Red Cross. Neighbors who have tips, photos or video that could help investigators are encouraged to contact the Fire Marshal's Office.
City agencies and the Red Cross say recovery assistance is underway for the families affected. Investigators are expected to release more information as it becomes available.
