Two men were taken to hospital and about 20 tenants were displaced following an apartment fire overnight.

Emergency services were called to 126 Melrose Ave. S. — a three-storey, 18-unit apartment building at Main Street East, west of Gage Avenue — shortly after midnight Monday.

The first crews on scene reported visible flames coming from one unit on the third floor, Hamilton Fire Department said in an email. The balcony was fully engulfed, with fire extending into the apartment unit.

The fire was contained to that unit, with smoke and water damage to other units in the building. Hamilton fire said the blaze was quickly knocked down.

Most tenants escaped on their own; however, a few with mobility issues required help.

The fire was caused by improperly discarded smoking materials, Hamil

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