Emergency workers were called to a fire at an apartment complex near Independence and Birmingham Place and around 3:00 Friday morning.
A firefighter was hurt when he slipped and fell off the ladder.
The worker was taken to the hospital for his injuries, believed to be his back and shoulder.
About a dozen families were evacuated and are waiting for the American Red Cross for help with food and shelter.
Crews cleared the scene around 7:30 A.M. with one crew staying behind to watch for hot spots.
Firefighters say the flames started after someone, who was smoking, caught their bed on fire.
Firefighters tell KRMG that smoking in bed is not a good idea.