A midnight fire in downtown Stayner displaced seven people from five apartments and affected three businesses.
The fire started at Perfect Sense Home and Spa, said Clearview Township Fire Chief Colin Shewell, but also affected Barb’s Clothes Closet and a business that was being renovated (formerly Petal Pushers).
Investigators from the Office of the Ontario Fire Marshal were one scene for two days. The investigation continues and there is extensive damage but the cost of the damages remains unknown, said Shewell.
Firefighters were called to 7279 Highway 26 at 12:40 a.m. on April 10. Everyone was out of the apartments on the second level, with assistance from OPP officers, who were in the neighbourhood conducting a RIDE check.
Six fire apparatus, one tower and about 25 firefighters were on scene.
Crews quickly extinguished the fire on the main floor, however there is excessive smoke damage to three buildings. Barb’s Clothes Closet sustained light to moderate smoke damage, said Shewell.
Shewell organized a meeting at town hall in Stayner Friday morning to connect fire victims with the Canadian Red Cross and help them figure out next steps in terms of building permits.
Kerry Woodward, disaster management coordinator for the Simcoe Muskoka branch of the Canadian Red Cross, and three volunteers from the agency were assessing the needs of the people who were put out of their homes.
The agency provides emergency shelter, food and water for 72 hours, or longer if necessary, in the case of an emergency. Clothing and gift cards for groceries were also made available.
Woodward said there was also a lot of support offered from other community groups, businesses and individuals.
Anyone wishing to donate cash or gifts to those affected by the fire are asked to contact Reinhart Foods at 705-428-2422 ext. 133.