Crews Extinguish Blaze At Norwalk Variety Store: FD

NORWALK, CT — A total of 37 fire personnel were on scene as crews worked to extinguish a fire that broke out at a variety store on Main Street early Thursday morning.

According to Deputy Chief Todd M. Smith, firefighters responded to the reported fire at 61 Main Street at approximately 2:30 a.m. Smith said heavy smoke was coming from the store, which is located in a strip-mall, however crews were able to make entry and extinguish the fire located in the back of the store.

Smith said the fire was initially reported to be stacks of magazines and newspapers.

Upon further investigation, firefighters discovered the blaze had extended into the walls and ceiling of the building. Smith said the roof of the structure was subsequently opened, at which point heavy smoke and heat came from the skylights, allowing firefighters to see the section of the blaze and extinguish it.

"Once extinguishment was complete, ventilation was set up and the building was metered for toxic gases, with high readings of carbon monoxide found in the apartments above," Smith said. "Additional ventilation for the apartments was performed."

According to Smith, two upstairs apartments were evacuated at the onset of the fire. Two firefighters were also treated on scene, with one firefighter being transported to a hospital with a knee injury, Smith said.

The incident was turned over to the Fire Prevention Bureau for investigation, Smith said.

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Photo credits: Norwalk Fire Department