Early morning fire forces tenants to evacuate building

HAMILTON, ON  – The Hamilton Fire Department responded to a report of fire in a 7 storey high-rise apartment building located at 195 Ferguson Avenue North, Hamilton at approximately 4:49 am this morning.

Upon arrival, firefighters confirmed a working fire in an apartment unit on the 4th floor of the building with heavy smoke conditions in a stairwell. A multiple alarm was then initiated to bring additional fire crews to the scene to assist in suppression operations. Firefighters were able to successfully knock the fire down in a short period of time with aggressive tactics and thereby limiting fire damage to the one apartment unit. During search and rescue operations firefighters did locate the occupant’s pet dog that was safely removed and put in the care of Animal Services. Crews immediately started ventilation procedures in order to clear the building of smoke and all residents of the building have returned to their apartment units except for the fire unit.

Damage is estimated at approximately $50,000 and the suspected cause of the fire was a lamp, without a lamp shade, which had come in contact with a mattress. The occupant of the apartment will not be able to reoccupy their apartment at this time and Red Cross has been called to assist the tenant in finding alternate accommodations.

For information on fire safety, contact our Fire Prevention Division at 905 546-2424 ext. 1380, weekdays between 8:30am and 4:30pm or visit our website at www.hamilton.ca/fire