Historic Fergus home ravaged by fire

FERGUS – Volunteer firefighters from Fergus and Elora stations responded to a residential fire on St. David St. South in Fergus at 2:30am on Aug. 11.

A recently renovated, historic two-storey home, located beside Graham A Giddy Funeral Home, was heavily damaged in the fire.

Flames were coming from the attic and out the roof when firefighters arrived, Centre Wellington Fire Rescue deputy chief Jonathan Karn told the Advertiser by phone.

Despite smoke detectors not activating, Karn said three adult residents had evacuated by the time fire crews arrived.

Power to the house went out as the fire raged, alerting the residents, Karn said. Nobody was injured in the blaze.

Traditional materials were used in renovations, according to Karn, who said a lath and plaster ceiling – an old style of ceiling made from wooden strips and covered with plaster – kept smoke from immediately spreading out the attic and activating working smoke alarms in the home.

Karn said though the fire was contained to the attic, the rest of the house sustained considerable smoke and water damage from firefighting efforts.

“Traditional construction means the fire didn’t burn as quickly or spread, but it was stubborn to put out,” Karn said.

“In the grand scheme, our crews did an excellent job to contain this fire,” he added.

Firefighters were on scene until 9am on Tuesday.

The cause has not been officially determined, but Karn said the department suspects it was electrical.

Damages are estimated to be between $500,000 and $1 million. The home's structure is still good, Karn said, meaning and a full tear-down likely isn't required.

“They (residents) will be displaced for some time though,” he said.

Victim Services assisted the residents with their immediate needs.

Insurance adjusters were on scene Wednesday to further assess damages.