Fire Update - Fire damage pegged at more than $1.5 million

By Barbara Simpson, Sarnia Observer

 A condominium complex at 1520 Venetian Blvd. in Point Edward was heavily damaged after fire broke out in a second floor unit May 25. CATHY DOBSON/THE OBSERVER/QMI AGENCY 

The fire that spread through a Point Edward condominium complex last month has left more than $1.5 million in damage.

Point Edward fire chief Doug Mackenzie confirmed the 36-unit Venetian Village complex was damaged for between $1.5 and $2 million during the May 22 blaze.

The fire started in the north end of the complex, just before 8 p.m. At its worst, wood framing and vinyl siding burned at temperatures up to 1,200 F (649 C).

But residents of the 18 units in the condominium complex’s south end received welcome news Friday evening — they were cleared to return to their condos.

Harold Hall, president of the neighbouring Lambton Condominium Complex, said he imagined that news brought a sense of relief to residents.

But those in the north end are still unable to return home, he said.

“There's a lot of them that have been staying at the Holiday Inn, but since it's going to be some time before the rest of it can be occupied, they're looking for temporary more permanent accommodations,” he said.

Mackenzie confirmed it may be more than three months before every resident can return home.

Six units in the north end were water or fire-damaged, he said. One condo took the brunt of the fire, with two other units affected by smoke.

“The fire was put out extremely quickly,” Mackenzie said.

Hall said condo residents are grateful for the quick response from fire officials. They're also pleased with community support.

“Everybody came together during a time of need,” he said. “There's no question.”

The cause of the fire has yet to be determined.

“The Fire Marshal's Office came and did an investigation,” Mackenzie said. “That's done, but he hasn't brought anything back as to the exact cause yet.”

barbara.simpson@sunmedia.ca
.
.
.