Chatham-Kent Fire and Emergency Services officials say a sprinkler system helped stop a fire from spreading at Sam’s Hotel in Wallaceburg.
Fire officials say the call for a fire at Sam’s came in on Monday, August 27, just before 8 a.m.
Firefighters from Station #3 – Wallaceburg and Station #2 – Chatham were quickly dispatched and upon arriving, could see smoke issuing from a second floor window.
It was unclear what was on fire and if anyone was still inside, fire officials say.
Crews made a quick entry into the building wearing breathing apparatus and, after making a rapid knockdown of the fire, assisted residents in evacuating the building.
The building was equipped with sprinklers, which prevented the fire from spreading and aided the occupants in making a safe evacuation, fire officials say.
No injuries were reported.
Chatham-Kent Victim Services is currently assisting those who have been displaced by the blaze.
“The presence of the sprinkler system in this building was a vital safety feature that protected the occupants during this emergency,” stated Adam Walters, assistant fire chief, in a media release.
“The cause of the fire is still under investigation and we are currently working with police and partner agencies to ensure the occupants are safe and accommodated whilst this matter is being dealt with.”
Dave Logan, who works with Wallace-Kent Sprinkler Systems Inc. in Wallaceburg, told the Sydenham Current the system in place at Sam’s worked wonders today.
“The properly maintained sprinkler system contained a mattress fire until fire officials could make it to the scene and fully extinguish,” Logan said.
“Properly installed and maintained fire sprinkler systems save lives.”
Chatham-Kent fire officials would like to remind residents that when a fire occurs, there is no time to waste.
“Get out, call 911 and stay out,” fire officials stated.
“It is so important to sit down with your family today and make a step-by-step plan for escaping from a fire.”
