Key Takeaways
- A four-alarm fire broke out at an apartment building in Thorncliffe Park, Toronto, prompting evacuations and power shutoffs.
- The fire, which originated from insulation burning between walls, produced high levels of carbon monoxide, leading to the evacuation of several floors.
- Approximately 70 units were displaced, with no reported injuries.
- The cause and origin of the fire are still unknown and under investigation.
- Toronto Hydro has disconnected power to the damaged equipment, affecting less than 20 customers, including multi-residential buildings.
Introduction to the Incident
The Toronto Fire Service (TFS) responded to a call at 11 Thorncliffe Park Dr. shortly after 1:30 p.m. on Thursday, where they encountered smoke on multiple levels. Upon investigation, it was determined that the fire was caused by insulation burning between the walls, producing high levels of carbon monoxide. This led to the evacuation of floors three, four, and five in one building, as well as floors three, four, and several penthouses in the other building.
Firefighting Efforts and Precautions
Acting Division Commander Robert Hewson stated that the fire was "stubborn" and "slow-burning," making it challenging to contain. As a precautionary measure, Toronto Hydro crews were called to shut off the power to the building and 21 Overlea Blvd, where the fire had spread. This was done to ensure the safety of the residents, as the high levels of carbon monoxide posed a significant risk. The evacuated residents were provided with shelter in TTC buses, where they could wait safely until the situation was resolved.
Resident Reactions and Concerns
Sheen Sotea, a resident of 21 Overlea Blvd, recounted her experience, stating that she initially thought the alarm in her unit was a fire drill or a false alarm until she smelled smoke. She expressed concern about the power outage, which could take hours or days to resolve. Another resident, Anna Arella, decided to shelter in place until the power went out, at which point she left her unit. Arella was concerned about the impact of the power outage on her schoolwork, as she was in the middle of exam season and relied on her computer to complete her assignments.
Investigation and Restoration Efforts
The cause, origin, and circumstances of the fire are still unknown and under investigation. Toronto Hydro has stated that they will assess the impacted equipment and determine the next steps for repair once the fire has been fully contained. The company has disconnected power to the damaged equipment, affecting less than 20 customers, including some multi-residential buildings. While there is no estimated time of restoration, Toronto Hydro has assured that they are working diligently to resolve the issue and appreciate the patience of those affected.
Current Situation and Future Developments
The situation is still ongoing, with fire crews continuing to investigate and contain the fire. The residents who were displaced are still waiting to return to their homes, with no estimated time of return available. The TFS and Toronto Hydro are working together to resolve the issue, with the priority being the safety of the residents. As the investigation continues, more information will become available about the cause and origin of the fire, and the necessary steps will be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.
