FALL RIVER, MA - Around 4:00 P.M. on March 7th, firefighters responded to a still alarm at 173 Mott Street. The 911 caller stated that her third-floor apartment was on fire. Engines 2, 4 and 5, along with Ladders 2 and 4, Rescue 1 and Car 3 responded. Engine 4 arrived on scene and reported heavy smoke showing. The crew of Engine 4 stretched an attack line into the side door and had heavy smoke pushing from the basement. After making their way down the interior stairs, the crew found heavy fire in the basement and proceeded to extinguish all visible fire. Crews checked the upper floors and located some pets that were left behind during the hasty evacuation. Due to the heavy smoke condition, the Chief called for an additional ladder company to respond. Firefighters were on scene for several hours doing salvage and overhaul operations.