Electrical Short Circuit Sparks Fire at Chester’s Grill, Rama 2 Soi 60/2

Pictures from responders

A fire broke out at a Chester’s Grill in Rama 2 Soi 60/2, Samae Dam Subdistrict, Bang Khun Thian District, Bangkok at approximately 12:35 on December 2, caused by an electrical short circuit in the motor of the restaurant’s ventilation system located above the cooking equipment.

Officials reported that the malfunction ignited heat insulation panels, along with built-up grease and oil residue in the ventilation system. While the fire was contained quickly, smoke filled the restaurant, prompting an evacuation. The sight of smoke escaping through the front doors caused alarm among neighbouring businesses, raising concerns about the fire’s potential to spread.

Firefighters from the Bang Khun Thian Fire and Rescue Station arrived swiftly, donning breathing apparatus to combat the fire. Using hose lines, they extinguished the flames and prevented any structural damage to the building.

After extinguishing the fire, responders faced the challenge of clearing the smoke and heat inside the restaurant. With the internal ventilation system disabled, crews used a hose line pointing out of the unit, to create a venturi effect (pressure differential) at the main entrance, efficiently drawing the smoke and heat out of the building. A PPV (positive pressure ventilation) fan was then used to complete the smoke clearance.

No injuries or fatalities were reported, and authorities declared the site safe. Chester’s Grill will undergo necessary repairs to the ventilation system and a thorough cleaning of smoke residue on walls, ceilings, and fittings before resuming operations.

-- 2024-12-03