Published December 22 2014
A small fire and subsequent water flow from a sprinkler head in the meeting area of a downtown restaurant caused approximately $20,000 worth of damage to the business.
At approximately 3:50 p.m., Friday, units from the Bellevue Fire Department were alerted to a "water flow" alarm at the City Center Plaza building inside the El Gaucho restaurant on 110th Avenue Northeast.
A cook at the restaurant told firefighters arriving on the scene that an employee had put out the fire with a fire extinguisher, but a sprinkler head had "fused" and water was still flowing. Ladder One crew members secured a fire hose over the sprinkler head in an effort to channel the water out of the building while crews located the sectional valve shutting down the flow of water while maintaining fire protection for the balance of the building.
The fire appears to have started by light combustibles being placed too close to a chafing dish warmer or candle. Fire damage was limited by the quick actions of the employee and buildings sprinkler system.
This incident provides a great reminder to all of us over the holiday season to be extra vigilant with open flames, such as candles, and lightweight combustibles (wrapping paper) in and around our homes and businesses.