Authorities investigating fire at Dowagiac McDonald’s
Published 9:46 am Monday, June 29, 2015
The local McDonald’s was temporary closed down Friday evening, after a fire broke out inside of the women’s bathroom, according to officials with the Dowagiac Fire Department.
According to department, firefighters were dispatched to the local fast food restaurant, located on 652 Spruce St., at 8:27 p.m. after receiving a report that the building was filling up with smoke.
The first unit arrived on scene two minutes after dispatch.
Upon arrival, the on-duty manager with the restaurant told first responders that all employees and customers had been evacuated from the building, which the firefighters confirmed during their sweep of the structure.
They determined that the fire appeared to have originated in the women’s bathroom, above the stalls, and was contained to the ventilation system.
Firefighters removed several feet of ductwork and ceiling materials to prevent the fire from spreading, bringing the blaze under control at approximately 9:15 p.m. Crews cleared the scene at 10:49 p.m.
No injuries were reported as a result of the incident.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
Department officials commended the employees of the fast food restaurant for helping firefighters in locating the fire before it got too out of control, and for quickly reporting the fire and getting customers and themselves to safety.
Fire crews were assisted at the scene by the Pride Care ambulance service and members of the Dowagiac Police Department.