Firefighters battle two eatery blazes with similar causes in less than 24 hours
In the course of 24 hours, the Hamilton Fire Department found itself having to douse two major fires at city restaurants that were closed for the evening.
In each case, the fires began in the kitchen, apparently because of kitchen equipment being left on.
The first fire broke out 4:33 a.m. Wednesday at the Oasis Restaurant at 388 Concession St. The second took place at 9:30 p.m. on the same day at the Bedrock Bistro at 260 Queenston Rd. No one was injured in either fire. The Ontario Fire Marshal’s office was called to probe the Oasis Restaurant blaze because the OFM is called in for all fires with more than $500,000 in damage. The damage tally was listed at $550,000.
Fire department information officer Claudio Mostacci said it was clear from the evidence that “the fire was not suspicious.” And the OFM will not be continuing its investigation.
After the Oasis fire began in the kitchen, it spread and eventually the roof caved in.
Heavy equipment was brought in Thursday to stabilize the structure, Mostacci said.
The Bedrock Bistro sustained $90,000 in damage after fire ripped through the kitchen.
“When we arrived, we could see smoke,” Mostacci said. “It was a forceful entry to get inside. It was closed for the day.”
Once in, firefighters were met with a fully involved kitchen blaze.
“It appears cooking equipment was left on and it ignited,” Mostacci said.
Fans of the east-end eatery, known for its breakfast and portion sizes, took to Twitter and Facebook to express concern and well wishes.