Posted Thursday, February 21, 2013 --- 8:25 a.m.

UPDATED Thursday, February 21, 2013 --- 11:58 a.m.

Press Release from the Janesville Fire Department:

Janesville Fire Department units were dispatched to 2621 Harvard Dr. (Franklin Court Apartments) at 2:21 a.m for a commercial fire. Rock County Communication Center was reporting smoke and flames showing in the basement. Upon arrival of Janesville Fire Department units we found a 2-story multi-family apartment complex with heavy smoke showing. Fire units reported that occupants were out on the second story balcony.

Fire units rescued 8 occupants from the second story. A total of 6 occupant's were transported to Mercy Hospital and Trauma Center. The fire is under investigation by the Janesville Fire Department and Janesville Police Department. The value of the property was set at $380,000 and fire loss was estimated at $150,000. (Savings to property owner of $230,000). The fire displaced 6 families, the American Red Cross was called for assistance with housing arrangements. Fire units remained on scene for 5 hours.

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JANESVILLE, Wis. (AP) -- Janesville firefighters rescued eight people from balconies during an apartment fire. Seven people were treated at a local hospital for smoke inhalation.

Officials say firefighters were called to a 12-unit apartment building about 2:20 a.m. Thursday and found heavy smoke coming from one of the apartments.

Officials say the fire apparently started in the basement of the building and that a broken water line slowed its progress. The cause is under investigation. Damage is estimated at $100,000 to $150,000.

The Red Cross is assisting 11 adults and five children.

Copyright 2013: Associated Press