Quick action by neighbours who called 911 helped save a home on Fenton Lane after a fire broke out inside a vacant semi-detached residence on Thursday afternoon, October 8.
Port Hope Fire and Emergency Services responded to multiple 911 calls shortly after 5 p.m. reporting a structure fire at 8 Fenton Lane.
When firefighters arrived, smoke was pouring from the doors and windows of the home, with fire developing inside the main level.
Fire crews were forced to enter the building to reach the fire and immediately began offensive fire suppression operations.
Fire Chief Jason Williams said firefighters were able to successfully suppress the fire, preventing further damage as crews moved into overhaul operations.
“Absolutely, the neighbours calling 911 when they did saved this house,” Williams said. “And our quick response from crews was amazing. They did a fantastic job getting into the home quickly.”
Fortunately, nobody was inside the residence when the fire broke out, and no injuries were reported.
However, the damage was extensive, with smoke migrating throughout the entire structure and fire affecting the kitchen area before penetrating the ceiling cavity and reaching the roof structure.
Williams said the extent of the damage means significant renovation work will likely be required before the home can be occupied again.
“Unfortunately, the fire did penetrate into the ceiling cavity,” he said. “So, likely going to be some major construction work required to get this home reoccupied.”
Despite the damage, there was some encouraging news regarding the home’s smoke alarms.
Firefighters confirmed that both smoke alarms were operational, valid and had not expired. The alarms were sounding when crews arrived.
Williams said it was particularly reassuring to see the devices functioning properly during Fire Prevention Week.
Port Hope Police Service later confirmed the fire had been successfully contained. Port Hope Fire and Emergency Services remained at the scene to monitor the structure and ensure there was no risk of the fire reigniting.
Once overhaul operations were completed, firefighters planned to launch an origin-and-cause investigation to determine how the fire started and establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Williams said the preliminary damage assessment indicates extensive repairs will be necessary before the residence can be occupied again.
The incident serves as another reminder of the importance of working smoke alarms and the role neighbours can play in protecting property and potentially saving lives by reporting an emergency without delay.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
