UPDATE: Commercial structure fire - 126 Wheeler Street
A fire investigator has found the cause of a fire that occurred on June 5, 2019 at a business located at 126 Wheeler Street to be accidental in nature as a result of the inadequate maintenance of an aluminum dust collection appliance. It is believed that static electricity sparked the ignition of the aluminum dust as it passed through a filtration system.
Further investigation has identified that 13 fire extinguishers were used by the business in an attempt to contain the fire. These efforts remained unsuccessful, as the extinguishers used were not intended for combustible metal fires. The Saskatoon Fire Department reminds businesses to verify that the appropriate fire extinguishers to meet the hazard are present in the workplace.
Damage has been estimated at $20,000.
The Saskatoon Fire Department has now concluded its involvement in this incident.
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At approximately 2:54 this afternoon, the Saskatoon Fire Department received a call from an alarm company indicating a commercial fire signal had been activated on the alarm panel of a business located at 126 Wheeler Street.
One fire engine was dispatched to investigate the cause of the activation. Upon arrival, fire crews observed a dust collection-type appliance on fire at this location. The call was immediately upgraded, prompting the dispatch of an additional two fire engines, one heavy rescue unit, one aerial ladder truck, one fire investigation unit, and one battalion chief.
All employees began evacuating the building to muster points nearby, allowing a representative of the business to confirm their accountability. Firefighters shut off the power to the building while an immediate attack on the fire was initiated. The fire was quickly brought under control and a search of the building confirmed there to be no further extension of the fire. Fire crews began ventilating the building of remaining smoke and carbon monoxide with the use of electric fans and the building's large overhead doors.
There were no injuries reported as a result of this incident. By approximately 4:30 this afternoon, employees of the business were allowed back inside to retrieve their personal belongings.
Fire investigators are working to determine a cause. A damage estimate is not yet available.