BASSETERRE, St. Kitts - FIRE officials are working on the theory that Thursday’s (Sept. 26) fire at popular fast food outlet Redi Fried may have been grease-related.
That was the view expressed by Fire Chief Everette O’Garro, who told local media outlet WINN FM that based on early indication they found a build-up of grease in the area of the deep fries where it is suspected that the fire began.
According to the Fire Chief, some time between 9:40 a.m. and 9:45 a.m. the Basseterre unit of the Fire Service responded to a fire at Redi Fried Restaurant.
He said that upon arrival they found the rear section of the building ablaze.
“Closer examination revealed that the fire would have originated in a kitchen that was located in the back of the restaurant. In that kitchen were two deep fryers that were used in the daily operations of the restaurant itself.
“We are presently suspecting that the fire would have resulted due to an overtime build-up of grease in and around the appliances in and around the kitchen.”
The build-up of grease in and around deep fryers, the Fire Chief said, eventually leads to flammable liquids.
That, according to O’Garro, is suspected to be the cause of the fire.
He however noted that though they have their suspicions, investigations are still ongoing.
“We are suspecting that that might be the cause. However, an investigation into the cause of the fire would ensue,” noted O’Garro.
SKNVibes News had seen thick smoke emanating from the building shortly after 9:30 a.m. yesterday with fire officers in attendance.
O’Garro noted that one person was in a back office when the fire began and was able to safely exit the building.
No injuries were reported, according to other fire officials.
