A Toronto firefighter has been taken to hospital after flames broke out inside a residence in Toronto’s Little Portugal neighbourhood Tuesday morning.

Emergency crews received the call at 9:15 a.m. and could see heavy smoke as they approached Dufferin Street and Alma Avenue, near the fire’s location.

Two people were trying to climb out of the building and were trapped on the ledge, an official with Toronto Fire Services said.

“One firefighter was overcome by the heat in the search and rescue,” Fire Chief Matthew Pegg told CP24 at the scene.

The firefighter was removed unconscious and rushed to hospital. He suffered serious but non-life-threatening injuries, according to paramedics.

Another person – a civilian -- suffered from smoke inhalation.

There were also cats inside the residence and there was a request to call animal control.

The cause of the fire was not immediately known but officials believe it originated from the second floor.

Crews worked to open the roof of the building for ventilation in order to get the fire under control.

“Our activities will continue on scene, some of it is salvage and overhaul. They have to make sure there’s no hidden fire and they’ve ventilated all of the smoke,” said Pegg.

Dufferen Street was blocked to traffic while emergency crews dealt with the situation. It reopened shortly before 6 p.m.

Mayor John Tory tweeted his support later on Tuesday.