The University of Vermont's Independent Voice Since 1883

The Vermont Cynic

The University of Vermont's Independent Voice Since 1883

The Vermont Cynic

The University of Vermont's Independent Voice Since 1883

The Vermont Cynic

Sorority fire displaces tenants

A bathroom in the Pi Beta Phi sorority house caught fire Nov. 6.

Thirteen fire fighters extinguished the fire using a dry chemical extinguisher and a single hoseline, according to the Nov. 7 press release by Barry Simays, Burlington fire marshal. The fire caused minor damage to the ceiling, attic and some of the fire alarm wiring with a cost estimate of $15,000, according to the press release.

There was also some water and smoke damage.

Nineteen residents of the South Prospect Street residence had to find temporary housing, according to the press release.

One of the residents noticed smoke and fire coming from the bathroom ceiling fan, closed the door and called 911 at approximately 7:21 p.m. Nov. 6, according to the press release. The fire department arrived three minutes after the call to 911, according to the press release.

Once there, they found smoke extending from the bathroom ceiling all the way up into the attic, according to the press release.

The temperature was not high enough to activate the sprinkler system, but Simays did confirm that the sprinkler system and fire alarm system within the building are both functioning properly, according to the press release.

The cause of the fire is still undetermined but there are no suspicious circumstances involved, according to the press release. No civilians or firefighters were injured or hurt during the incident, according to the press release.

The Cynic was unable to reach a representative from Pi Beta Phi for comment.

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Sorority fire displaces tenants