PITTSFIELD, Mass.— Firefighters put out an apartment fire at Epsworth Arms Apartments on Tuesday morning that was caused by "careless cigarette smoking." 

 

Fire trucks responded around 6:52 a.m. when dispatch was told by a passerby that smoke could be seen coming from the first-floor window of the three-story 35-unit structure at 350 West St. 

 

Fire alarms were activated, and upon arrival, firefighters found heavy smoke spreading throughout the first-floor hallway.

 

Firefighters stretched a handline into the apartment and searched the building.

 

There were no injuries, and the majority of residents were ordered to remain in their apartments. Any residents outside of their apartments were escorted outside.

 

The building was ventilated, and eventually, all residents were allowed back inside.

 

Firefighters noted the early call by the passerby allowed for a quick and early response in a potential high loss tragedy situation. Instead, there was only smoke and water damage in the apartment.

 

This lone apartment was condemned and the Red Cross responded to assist with alternative housing.