PRESS RELEASE: Fire at Sheraton Injures Worker

South Burlington Fire Department

Office of the City Fire Marshal

575 Dorset St.

South Burlington, VT  05403

846-4134

For Immediate Release

December 23, 2013

Fire at Sheraton injures worker:

At 11:57 hrs. South Burlington fire Department responded to a 911 call for a report of a fire in room at the Sheraton. Firefighters arrived at 12:00 and found that the hotel staff had completed an orderly evacuation of the few remaining guests, and staff directed fire crews to the second floor of the South Champlain building, which is situated in the North wing of the complex.  When firefighters encountered moderate smoke conditions on the second floor and immediately struck a first alarm bringing all on duty firefighters in the City to the scene.

A male burn victim was found in the main lobby. The patient was identified as a subcontract worker involved with the remodeling project.  He was treated by firefighters and transported to Fletcher Allen by UVM Rescue with a South Burlington Firefighter/Paramedic providing advanced care during transport.

The building’s fire sprinkler system held the fire in check until firefighters arrived. The fire was contained to a single room on the second floor of the South Champlain building, which is currently under remodeling and unoccupied.  The second floor sustained moderate smoke and water damage. Fire crews finished overhaul operations at 13:30hrs.

The fire investigated by the South Burlington Fire Marshal’s Office. It was determined that the accidental fire was started when a propane torch ignited a piece of construction material, which was then brought into a bathroom for extinguishment. Unfortunately the room had combustible vapor present from flammable glue being used for a project. The room immediately burst into flames setting his clothing alight, injuring the worker.

Sheraton guests who were initially evacuated as a precaution, were allowed to return to their rooms once the fire was extinguished and the smoke removed from the building. No guests were injured during the event.

Damage is estimated at $30,000

For further information please contact Deputy Chief Francis at 846-4134.

END