With three Mohawk Valley fires destroying three homes in just a few days, it's been a busy week for the American Red Cross.
On Monday, crews battled flames and smoke at a New Hartford home. The owner and her pet got out safely, but the house has significant damage.
On Tuesday night, a fire destroyed a home in Ilion. A family of four including two-children were living there. No one was home at the time. However, the Ilion Fire Chief believes five-animals were inside and only two-dogs were rescued.
Then, early Wednesday morning, a firefighter injured his leg at a house fire in Utica. Six people including five children, were forced out of their home, which is a total loss.
Investigators are still trying to figure out what caused all three fires.
The American Red Cross Mohawk Valley Chapter is helping each of the victims, which is 11 people altogether.
"Normally we see a big uptick in fires in the winter, especially when people start heating their homes again so it's unusual for us to see this many fires this year. Normally, summer is a little quieter," said American Red Cross Mohawk Valley Chapter Executive Director Mallory Brown.
The Red Cross provides financial assistance, health services and emotional support.
They are always looking for more volunteers as well as donations.