On May 24 2018 at 19:05, Cambridge, Ontario firefighters had their second general alarm fire in five days. P1, P2, P5, A3, R1, and Car 6 were dispatched to the fire at 515 Hespeler Road. Regional Police advised they had fire showing from the front of the building and roof. P1 arrived and reported heavy fire and smoke showing and requested the next unit pick up the hydrant. The fire was in the front waiting room and a 40’ high sign at the front of the car wash. A4, the last truck left in the city, was added to the call shortly after they cleared a med call.

Kitchener fire was requested for mutual aid to an alarm ringing and Ayr fire was toned out to respond with a pumper to cover the city while overtime crews were being called in. Multiple lines and both aerials were set up to attack the fire. Firefighters were able to keep the fire from spreading into the main building which housed a large car wash, oil change business, and garage. The fire was brought under control in 40 minutes.

Preliminary damage has been set at $250,000. The Ontario Fire Marshal was called to investigate the cause. Early video and photos by Box 690 members Dave Westwood and Nic Murray. Box 690 provided rehab for the fire.

This was the first working fire for a number of new recruits. Cambridge is opening station six in the fall.

Gay Dinkel, Box 690

Dave Westwood photo

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