Hanover emergency responders say spent the afternoon accessing hot spots after an early morning fire broke out on 10th street downtown.
Police Chief Chris Knoll says public safety concerns developed about a possible building collapse and police halted all foot traffic in the area as well as street traffic, from 9th to 11th avenues.
Emergency services responded to the fire just before 2:30 Thursday morning at the former Forum Hotel rooming house and the Fabulous Fashions building.
Initial images from the scene showed large flames engulfing multiple floors — and heavy smoke billowing into the air.
Police say they believe all of the residents in the building escaped the fire, but officers were still trying to confirm this Thursday.
Two Hanover Police Officers received treatment for smoke inhalation at the scene by Grey County Paramedics.
Displaced residents have been asked to go to Grace United Church at 310 12th street in Hanover for assistance and food, clothing, emotional and other supports.
Grey County said Thursday, it was working with YMCA Housing Services to assess needs.
The United Way Bruce Grey has established a disaster relief fund to support victims of the fire. Donations can be made through www.donatetoday.ca by choosing the General Fund and leaving a note to indicate Hanover Fire.