Hamilton Fire crews busy with 3 residential structure fires

Hamilton, Ontario - July 18, 2018 –  In addition to a multiple-alarm fire which took place at 74 George Street early this morning, Hamilton firefighters were kept busy with 2 additional residential structure fires today, all of which occurred in a 12-hour period.

At 9:16 am today, firefighters responded to a residential fire at 1627 Trinity Church Road, Glanbrook. First crews on scene reported heavy smoke and flame consuming the rear deck with fire extending into the roof area and rear wall of the home. No one was at home at the time of the fire. One firefighter was treated on-scene for heat-related injuries, transported to hospital and subsequently released. The cause of this fire has been listed as undetermined; the fire caused extensive damage to the rear deck and substantial fire damage to a first-floor kitchen and basement family room.

At 12 noon today, fire crews responded to a residential structure fire at 165 Balmoral Avenue North, in the City’s east end. First arriving crews reported smoke showing from the 2nd floor level of this 2-1/2 storey duplex. Initial reports indicated that one person was believed to still be in the building, but aggressive search and rescue efforts by firefighters determined that there was no one in the home. The use of a propane torch, being used to work on awnings attached to this home, appears to be the cause of this fire which spread through the exterior walls to both upper floors.  Damage is estimated at $200,000 and no injuries were reported.

The Hamilton Fire Department would like to remind all citizens that the majority of all structure fires in the City of Hamilton occur in people’s homes and many of these fires are preventable.  Careless disposal of smokers’ materials and unattended cooking continue to be the leading cause of fire in homes across the City.

Proper installation and maintenance of working smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms is the first step in protecting your family from the hazards of fire.  Should you require more information on fire safety and how to keep your family safe from fire, please contact the Fire Prevention Bureau, weekdays from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm at 905-546-2424 ext. 1380 or visit www.hamilton.ca/fire.