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Neighbors Pull Man from Roof of Burning Building During Bone-Chilling Rescue

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In times of crisis, it’s good to know a neighbor has your back.

Ilion, New York, resident Harry Ford discovered first hand just how vital it is to be part of a community who looks after one another.

It was early in the morning on Aug. 6 when Ford heard the fire alarm scream through his apartment building.

Urgently, Ford rushed about his apartment to figure out where the fire was located, and how he would escape.

Ford recalled smoke and flames billowing out of his bathroom. As he frantically searched for a way to escape, all he could do was climb up to the roof.

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Neighbors and residents were very quick to respond, making sure that everyone made it out safely.

Ford was rescued from the burning building when a group of people ran to his aid carrying a ladder, escorting him down to safety.

“Some people came by with a ladder before the fire department got here and helped me out,” Ford said.

Ford watched as the fire department arrived to extinguish the flames. He and his fellow residents agree that while the situation is bad, things could have been much worse.

The building was home to 11 residents, and thankfully, all escaped the dangerous flames. The families are now living in displaced, temporary housing while they figure out their next steps.

Amy Crandall was at work when the flames broke out at home. She said she lost everything, and she and her three sons have had to split themselves up among relatives to have a place to stay.

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Still, Crandall is more concerned about other families living in her building. She’s worried for the people who didn’t have renter’s insurance, left to start over from scratch.

In spite of the destroyed apartment building, Ford is thankful to live in a town where neighbors look out for one another. He’s also thankful for the swift response from Ilion emergency personnel.

“They’re great people — Ilion is full of great people,” Ford said. “Thank you so much.”

According to WKTV, the American Red Cross has provided immediate emergency aid to the residents living inside the building.

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A graduate of Grand Canyon University, Kim Davis has been writing for The Western Journal since 2015, focusing on lifestyle stories.
Kim Davis began writing for The Western Journal in 2015. Her primary topics cover family, faith, and women. She has experience as a copy editor for the online publication Thoughtful Women. Kim worked as an arts administrator for The Phoenix Symphony, writing music education curriculum and leading community engagement programs throughout the region. She holds a degree in music education from Grand Canyon University with a minor in eating tacos.
Birthplace
Page, Arizona
Education
Bachelor of Science in Music Education
Location
Phoenix, Arizona
Languages Spoken
English
Topics of Expertise
Lifestyle & Human Interest




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