A firefighter who gave up his mask to rescue a trapped civilian was one of three people taken to the hospital from an apartment fire on Wednesday, March 9th.

Units were alerted to people trapped as they arrived at the three story building at 1715 Minnesota Avenue NE just before three PM.

A working fire dispatch was sounded as members raced inside to attack the flames and find those in distress, among them an elderly woman on a third floor balcony shrouded in heavy smoke and heat.

Firefighter Danny Lovato, Engine 18 detailed to Truck 7,  climbed a portable ladder to reach the victim. He than placed his mask face piece on her until she could be brought to safety.

Once removed, the victim was rushed to a trauma center. Exhausted and suffering from smoke inhalation after sharing his air during the rescue, Lovato also had to be transported to the hospital, where he was placed  in ICU.

It took about twenty five minutes to knock down the fire, and the Rehab Unit was requested to assist on the scene. A second firefighter also had to be transported after battling the blaze.