Hamilton firefighters douse $500K east-end blaze

Hot and humid weather complicated things for Hamilton firefighters battling a blaze in the city's east end Saturday.

Firefighters were called to a residence on Ferndale Avenue in Rosedale before 3 p.m. July 23.

A fire coming from the back deck ... had spread to the home," a Hamilton Fire Department spokesperson told The Spectator in an email.

Firefighters searched the home, finding no occupants, and began battling the blaze.

A single resident of the house had taken refuge at a neighbour's home and they were treated by paramedics. No other injuries were reported.

Given the hot weather, the fire spokesperson said multiple crews were brought in to assist in firefighting operations." A total of 16 units were dispatched, according to the fire department's Twitter feed.

About 50 minutes later, the fire was under control.

Firefighters believe damage to the home is in excess of $500,000. The cause of the fire is unknown.

The Ontario Fire Marshal will investigate due to the extent of the damage and estimated dollar loss," the fire spokesperson said.

Jeremy Kemeny is a Hamilton-based web editor at The Spectator. Reach him via email: jkemeny@thespec.com