WILLISTON, N.D. – The Williston Fire Department (WFD) was dispatched to the 1500 block of Bison Drive at 1:49 PM by the Williams County Dispatch Center (WCDC) for a reported multi-family residential fire.

Flames were confirmed on a third-story balcony, triggering a 1st Alarm response, which includes two fire engines, a ladder truck, paid-on-call staff, and command staff. The Williston Police Department (WPD) managed traffic control and scene security, while Williams County/Williston Emergency Management provided support.

Engine 1 from Fire Station #1 arrived first at 1:53 PM, noting active evacuation and a fire on a third-story balcony.

A WPD officer, already on scene, had subdued the fire with a portable extinguisher and assisted with evacuations. Engine 1's crew began exterior firefighting efforts, extinguishing the fire by 1:57 PM.

Crews then ensured no fire spread. Damage was limited to two exterior balconies, which are closed for repairs. No living units were damaged, and all occupants returned to their apartments without injuries.

Responding units included Engine 1, Engine 3, Truck 2, Medic 1, and command staff, totaling 18 firefighters. All units cleared the scene by 2:22 PM.

The WFD Fire Prevention Division determined the fire was accidental, caused by improper disposal of cigarettes.

The swift reporting and actions by the WPD significantly reduced the loss.

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The WFD reminds smokers to discard cigarettes in approved containers and smoke away from structures or in designated areas.

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