City Commends Emergency Responders Following Structure Fire on Fifth Street

The City of Kenora is recognizing the efforts of emergency responders following a structure fire at the A&W Restaurant on Fifth Street on October 16. While the fire resulted in extensive damage, all occupants safely evacuated the building and no injuries were reported. The coordinated response of Kenora Fire & Emergency Services and supporting agencies helped bring the fire under control and protect surrounding properties.

At approximately 5:55 p.m., Kenora Fire & Emergency Services received a call reporting a structure fire. At the time, the on-duty crew was responding to another emergency. Recognizing the seriousness of the situation, the on-duty Captain immediately upgraded the incident to a working fire and requested additional career and paid-per-call firefighters.

Crews arrived on scene at approximately 6:15 p.m. to find heavy smoke and a working fire. All occupants had safely evacuated prior to firefighters' arrival, and no injuries were reported.

Firefighters initially attempted to gain access to the structure before transitioning to a defensive fire attack. Suppression efforts included the use of the aerial master stream, ground monitors, and handlines. The fire was declared under control at 8:13 p.m., and crews remained on scene to extinguish hot spots and ensure the area was safe before declaring the fire out at 10:12 p.m.

The incident resulted in extensive property damage. The cause of the fire remains undetermined but is not considered suspicious.

“This incident demonstrated the importance of teamwork and interagency collaboration,” shares Gord Howard, Fire Chief and Director of Emergency Services. “I want to thank our firefighters and all responding agencies for their professionalism, dedication, and coordinated efforts throughout the response.”

“We encourage residents to use this incident as a reminder to check their smoke alarms, ensure they are working properly, and review their home fire escape plan with everyone in their household,” adds Dexter Hupe, Deputy Fire Chief.

The City extends its sincere thanks to all agencies that assisted during the response, helping protect nearby properties, responders, and the public.

The City also recognizes the impact this fire has had on the owners and staff of A&W, as well as the many residents who have supported the business over the years. A&W has long been a familiar part of the community and a frequent supporter of local events, organizations, and charitable initiatives. The impact of this fire on such a well-known community business will be felt by many. The City extends its best wishes to the owners and staff as they navigate the recovery process and looks forward to welcoming A&W back when it is ready to reopen.