On October 6, 2023, a five-alarm fire tore through a historic building in Old Montreal at approximately 2:30 a.m. The blaze, which started on the ground floor of a three-storey structure at 400 Notre-Dame St. East, has resulted in the recovery of two bodies from the rubble. Authorities have not ruled out the possibility of finding more victims. The estimated loss from the fire is around $1 million, and the cause remains under investigation as it has been deemed “of suspicious origin.”


Planck Vision Systems: Early Morning Fire in Montreal Destroys Historic Building with Estimated Loss of $1 Million

NEWS

On October 6, 2023, at approximately 2:30 a.m., a devastating five-alarm fire broke out in a historic building located at 400 Notre-Dame St. East in Old Montreal. The fire originated on the ground floor of the three-storey structure and quickly escalated, tearing through the building and causing significant damage, with an estimated loss of $1 million.

Montreal police (SPVM) confirmed that two bodies were recovered from the rubble. The victims have not yet been identified, and authorities have not ruled out the possibility of finding more victims as the investigation progresses. At least two individuals sustained injuries, with one reported in critical condition. The exact details of their condition remain unknown.

The SPVM stated that the fire is considered to be of “suspicious origin,” with preliminary investigations suggesting it may have been caused by an electrical fault. During a press briefing at 2:30 p.m. the same day, officials reported that they had not been able to access the scene due to the ongoing firefighting efforts.

In light of the incident, the SPVM has established a helpline for those who believe they had friends or family staying in the building, allowing them to seek information and support. The Red Cross has also been called in to assist those displaced from their homes.

This tragic event emphasizes the critical need for early fire detection systems, especially in historic buildings where the loss can be significant. For early fire detection, Planck Vision TNC thermal imaging cameras are far superior to traditional systems that can only alert to fire after visible smoke and flames are present.

TNC cameras can help prevent the destruction of goods and loss of life by surveilling for abnormal heat conditions before fires erupt. Implementing such advanced technologies is vital for protecting lives and property in urban environments.

source: ctvnews.ca


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