Clifton Park, NY (WRGB) -- A fire at the Fox Run Apartments on Christmas morning displaced around 30 residents, prompting the Town of Clifton Park to set up a fund to support affected families.
Vischer Ferry Volunteer Fire Department Chief Tim Kimball praised one resident whose quick action prevented further harm.
"That resident who called and saw the smoke starting to build, that person alerting the other residents -- that's key, that person saved some people," Kimball said.
Fire crews arrived at the scene to find heavy smoke emanating from the building's first-floor electrical utility room. Twenty-two apartments were evacuated as firefighters worked to extinguish the blaze. The fire was contained to a few rooms and was fully extinguished by 5 a.m.
"Any day you have to move that many people is tough -- especially on Christmas, that's tough," he said.
While the fire caused minor damage to the utility room and smoke damage to several apartments, most residents escaped injury. However, one person was taken to the hospital for minor injuries... stemming from high blood pressure after breathing in smoke.
Clifton Park officials said displaced residents have been temporarily relocated to local hotels. Town Supervisor Phil Barrett emphasized the town's commitment to helping residents return home safely.
"The town's role is to work with all parties to ensure people can safely return to their apartment," Barrett said in a statement.
In addition to the fire crews, the Clifton Park Halfmoon Ambulance Corps provided support at the scene, including distributing gifts to children affected by the evacuation.
Fox Run management released a statement expressing hope that displaced residents could return within two days, but they also offered flexibility.
"If repairs require more time than expected, residents will have the option of being relocated in the community or can be released from their leases," the statement read.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Saratoga County Cause and Origin Team. "Right now, it looks to be electrical -- still under investigation -- but the electric panel was heavily damaged," Kimball added.
Donations to assist displaced families are being accepted by the Town of Clifton Park.