Heating/AC Unit Burns at Holiday Inn

Upon arrival fire crews found a smoke condition on the first floor in and around the office area. Hotel managers directed the fire companies to the roof top area above the main entrance where the building engineer located a rooftop Heating/Air Conditioning Unit that was on fire. The building Engineer was also utilizing a portable fire extinguisher in an attempt to extinguish the fire.

Fire crews accessed the rooftop area and also expended a portable fire extinguisher which effectively eliminated the fire. Through the quick actions of the building engineer, hotel management and the fire department – the fire was contained to the rooftop Heating/Air Conditioner unit.

Fire crews remained on the scene for an additional 20 minutes using smoke ejector fans to effectively clear the first floor office area of smoke.

No dollar estimate was available on the cost of the Heating-Air Conditioner unit that was damaged.

There were no injuries associated with the incident.

Firefighters cleared the scene at 10:24am.

Effingham Fire Chief Bob Tutko would like to remind both homeowners and business owners to insure their heating equipment has been serviced by a qualified professional, especially during this period of unseasonable cold weather – furnaces, hot water heaters and boilers will be exercised more than usual during this cold snap and it is important that these mechanical systems are prepared for the demands we place on them to keep us warm.In addition, please take time get a jump start on spring cleaning by insuring furnaces and hot water heaters are clear from clutter; ideally at least a 36” area should be clear around your furnace and hot water heater.

If you are using space heaters or electric blankets make sure you are following the manufactures recommendations concerning use, and the power cords are intact and not frayed.