Fire Tears Through Multiple Triple Decker Homes In Dorchester; 48 People Displaced

BOSTON (CBS) -- Multiple homes caught on fire Wednesday in a seven-alarm blaze in Dorchester that displaced dozens of people, the Boston Fire Department said. It took about 150 firefighters to put out the flames.

"We have multiple 3 family houses on fire on Fayston St in Dorchester," the department tweeted at about 11:30 a.m.

Firefighters reported heavy fire in the back of the buildings, causing the rear porches to collapse. Photos showed heavy smoke pouring out of the homes.

There were initial reports of children inside the homes, but everyone was able to self-evacuate. One civilian was hospitalized for minor injuries. High temperatures made conditions tough for firefighters.

"The heat was a major factor," Boston Fire Commissioner Jack Dempsey said. "We had three firefighters taken to the hospital for evaluation, hopefully minor."

Dempsey said the fire started on Fayston Street before jumping to two more buildings on Mascoma and Quincy streets.

A total of 48 people have been displaced, including 18 children.

"It's devastating. Everything you own is gone," said Mildred Nieves, whose home burned.

Brittany Rivera, whose home was destroyed, was able to save her daughter's dog. "It's a service dog for my autistic daughter," she said. "Explaining that to her would have been crushing."

Acting Boston Mayor Kim Janey said the city is helping those displaced find temporary housing, as the fire caused extensive damage to the Fayston Street homes.

"Right now we're still assessing the damage," Janey said. "Many of the residents want to go in and retrieve their possessions, but right now we have to make sure that these buildings are safe and foremost safe."

It's not clear yet what caused the fire. Janey urged people to think about fire safety leading into the holiday weekend.

"People should definitely be careful with grills, with anything that could spark a flame," she said.