Nearly 30 people flee apartment fire in Douglas

DOUGLAS, Mass. — The Red Cross is assisting 30 people who have been displaced by a 3-alarm fire in Douglas.

The fire broke out early Wednesday just before 3a.m. at a 7-unit apartment building that was built in 1850.

Residents were woken up by fire alarms, which played a key role in ensuring everyone got out safely.

One woman who lives on the third floor says there have been other instances in the past where the alarms have gone off, but it was never this bad.

"Fire alarms are good, smoke detectors are good, they save lives," said Douglas Fire Chief Kent Vinson. "It’s important we drive that message home, we have no injuries because of that. It could’ve gone the other way."

Heavy smoke could be seen coming from the house as firefighters worked to put out the flames. Flames traveled quickly and shot through the roof of the old structure.

It's still unclear if there were any injuries.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

This is a developing story. Stay with Boston 25 News for more updates as they become available. 

Cox Media Group