Flames and heavy smoke saturated a small apartment building in Big Rapids late Wednesday afternoon forcing three families from their homes.

While the fire was contained to one room, smoke damage in the building was extensive ruining almost everything inside.

"The smell of smoke was so strong that it took your breath away," says Wayne DeGroat, a tenant at the building who discovered the fire.

No one was home when the fire started - firefighters say that a faulty heater is the likely cause.

The Red Cross assisted on the scene but at least two of the families opted to stay with relatives; that is considered a temporary fix for each.

There is a benefit being planned but details are not finalized.

Donations of cash, clothing or furniture can be arranged by calling Elaine a the Wild Rose Cafe: 231-796-2477 or on her cell phone at 231-349-2225.

9&10's Michael Kasiborski and photojournalist Stephanie Adkins have more on the devastating effects of the fire.