UTICA, N.Y. -- A fire near Oneida Square in Utica forced seven people out of their homes.

The American Red Cross says three of those displaced are children.

Firefighters say the flames were intense, and it took a huge effort to knock it down.

"Heavy massive streams to knock that main body of fire down in the back of the building, then crews were able to enter and worked on the roof, did some ventilation. It was just a very aggressive, speedy attack on the fire what had a positive outcome,” said Utica Fire Department Chief James Barefoot.

Tenants will not be allowed to return to the building until it's declared safe.

The cause of the fire is still under investigation.