United States (North Carolina) - A four-alarm fire sent dozens of residents, many wearing only pajamas and robes, fleeing for safety early Tuesday morning at a south Charlotte apartment complex. No serious injuries were reported in the blaze, at the Charlotte Woods apartments on Scaleybark Road near Woodlawn Road. However, one person was taken to the hospital for treatment, authorities say.

Firefighters had to make several rescues from second- and third-floor balconies.

The blaze was brought under control before 6 a.m., and firefighters finally were able to leave the scene after 7:30 a.m. Scaleybark Road was closed between Woodlawn Road and Murrayhill Road for about four hours but was reopened shortly before 8 a.m.

All 66 apartments at the four-story 1118 building were evacuated, and fire officials say about a dozen units appeared to be directly affected by the blaze. More than 100 residents were forced into the early-morning chill, and the American Red Cross was on the scene to provide help.

The fire was reported shortly after 3 a.m., when several residents called 911 after reporting fire alarms sounding and smoke pouring from the building. Initial firefighters responding to the scene quickly called for a second and then third alarm, after finding flames and heavy smoke pouring from the four-story building.

"Firefighters quickly realized this would be a major challenge, given that the fire originated in the center of the building and quickly spread to the roof and attic area," Charlotte fire Capt. Rob Brisley told reporters.

A fourth alarm was called at 4:15 a.m.

By that time, firefighters were using ladders to rescue residents from balconies.

One resident, Bea Davenport, said she kept her patience and waited on her second-floor balcony for firefighters to arrive.

"If I jumped, I'd break my legs," Davenport said. "I didn't want to break my legs, so I waited."

She said she and her daughter were rescued soon afterward.

Kristin Young of Medic, the county's emergency medical service, said one person was taken to Carolinas Medical Center-Mercy, apparently for observation.

Kate Meier, of the American Red Cross chapter in Charlotte, said her organization was providing food and other help for displaced residents and for firefighters.

Charlotte Woods is more than 35 years old and is among the oldest apartment complexes in south Charlotte.

Written by The Charlotte Observer